Brighton face a stern test at the Amex Stadium when they take on defending champions Manchester City in a crucial Premier League clash. Both sides are dealing with injury concerns, but the stakes are clear: Brighton aim to climb out of the relegation zone, while City seek to bounce back from defeat and close the gap on the early leaders.
The Seagulls find themselves in an uncomfortable position early in the season. After two matches, they sit 18th in the table with just one point, having scored only once while conceding three. The lack of cutting edge up front has been a concern for Roberto De Zerbi’s side, who will be looking for a spark from their attacking players to kickstart their campaign.
Manchester City, meanwhile, have collected three points from their opening fixtures and currently occupy 11th place. Their record of four goals scored and two conceded reflects their attacking potential, but the champions are already playing catch-up, sitting eight points behind the pace-setting teams. A victory at the Amex is crucial if they are to regain momentum and reinforce their title credentials.
Brighton’s preparations have been hampered by injuries. Adam Webster, Julio Enciso, and Solly March are confirmed absentees, while new signing Georginio Rutter faces a late fitness test. The Seagulls will rely heavily on captain Lewis Dunk’s defensive leadership and the creativity of Kaoru Mitoma to unsettle City’s backline. Danny Welbeck’s experience and movement will also be vital in spearheading the attack.
City, too, have injury setbacks, with Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, Rayan Cherki, Marcus Bettinelli, and Savinho all unavailable. Even so, Pep Guardiola’s men remain stacked with attacking quality. Erling Haaland leads the line, supported by Jeremy Doku’s pace and Bernardo Silva’s intelligence in midfield. James Trafford is expected to continue in goal in the absence of Ederson.
The last meeting between these two sides ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Etihad in March. Pervis Estupinan gave Brighton an early lead before goals from Haaland and Omar Marmoush turned the tide, only for the visitors to rally and secure a point. That resilience will give the Seagulls belief as they attempt to frustrate the champions once again.
With Brighton desperate for survival points and City determined to reassert their dominance, the Amex Stadium promises a fiercely contested encounter.
