Manchester City Starting XI vs Brighton: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Manchester City Face Defensive Crisis Ahead of Brighton Clash

Manchester City’s push for Champions League football faces another stern test as they prepare for today’s Premier League showdown against Brighton. Pep Guardiola, ever the perfectionist, has described the run-in as “ten finals” for his side, a clear admission of the high stakes at play.

Injury Woes Pile Up for Guardiola

The reigning champions sit fifth in the Premier League table, a position that could yet secure them entry into Europe’s elite if UEFA’s coefficient system grants England a fifth Champions League spot. However, last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest underlined a worrying inconsistency, and the visit of Brighton is no easy remedy.

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Guardiola’s primary concern lies in defence. Nathan Ake is the latest casualty, joining John Stones and Manuel Akanji on the sidelines. The Dutchman has undergone surgery on a fractured foot and is set for a lengthy spell out, with an expected absence of ten to eleven weeks. “Still, City lost 1-0 to Nottingham Forest last weekend and remain difficult to trust to any significant degree.”

Midfield Reinforcements Available?

Oscar Bobb and Rodri remain long-term absentees, leaving Guardiola with limited options. However, he may find solace in the potential returns of Kevin De Bruyne, Mateo Kovacic, and Omar Marmoush, all of whom were unused against Forest but could start against Brighton.

City’s expected lineup sees Ederson between the sticks, shielded by Nunes, Dias, Khusanov, and Gvardiol. Further forward, Nico, Savinho, Silva, Foden, and Doku are likely to support the attack. The question remains—will they have enough to overcome an in-form Brighton side?

Kick-off at the Etihad Stadium is set for 3pm GMT, though the match will not be broadcast live in the UK.