Brighton vs Man City preview, team news and predicted lineup

Brighton and Hove Albion enter this match with just one point from their opening two games as the Seagulls began the season with a 1-1 draw against Fulham, conceding a late equaliser, before falling to a 2-0 defeat at Everton last weekend. Over the summer, Brighton lost Joao Pedro to Chelsea, and his replacement in attack is Greek teenager Charalampos Kostoulas.

While Kostoulas is a promising talent, he is not yet at the level of Joao Pedro, and with no other significant attacking additions, many Brighton fans may feel that the team’s forward line is weaker than it was last season—especially as Danny Welbeck continues to age.

While Brighton are unlikely to find themselves in a relegation battle, they also don’t appear particularly well positioned to improve on last season’s finish, especially as several of their rivals have strengthened their squads. A win over Manchester City on Sunday would be a statement result, but it will be a difficult task.

Manchester City, meanwhile, have collected three points from their first two games. Pep Guardiola’s side cruised to a 4-0 victory over Wolves on the opening day, but suffered a 2-0 defeat to Tottenham last weekend, who executed a tactically disciplined performance. City struggled out of possession at times last season, resulting in their poorest campaign under Guardiola since his first year at the club.

The loss to Tottenham has reignited concerns about their defensive vulnerabilities. However, the return of Rodri, who has yet to start a Premier League match this season after missing the end of last campaign, could help shore up that area of the team.

With last season’s issues still lingering, back-to-back defeats could dent City’s confidence. It’s crucial for them to respond with a win to put last weekend’s disappointment behind them, and given the quality in their squad, we expect them to do just that.

Adam Webster will miss a significant part of the season after undergoing knee surgery last month. The defender, along with Solly March and Julio Enciso, remains definitely sidelined.

Georginio Rutter, who missed both the 2-0 defeat at Everton and the win over Oxford, has now returned to training and is expected to be available for selection against City. Head coach Fabian Hurzeler is likely to restore his regular Premier League lineup after resting several key players for the midweek cup fixture.

Rayan Ait-Nouri, who was forced off early against Spurs, is on track to be available for Brighton, despite concerns following the injury.

Pep Guardiola will provide updates on Josko Gvardiol, Savinho, and Claudio Echeverri during his pre-match press conference, but Mateo Kovacic remains unavailable. Phil Foden and Rodri are both pushing for a place in the starting XI after making substitute appearances against Spurs, as are captain Bernardo Silva and Jeremy Doku.

Brighton: Verbruggen; Wieffer, Dunk, Van Hecke, De Cuyper; Baleba, Gomez; Minteh, O'Riley, Mitoma; Tzimas

Man City: Trafford; Lewis, Stones, Dias, Ake; Rodri, Reijnders; Bobb, Cherki, Marmoush; Haaland

If you are on the lookout for the latest free bet offers, then look no further. Here, not only do we bring you numerous free bet offers, but all from the very best betting sites in the industry. Each bookie we recommend is fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, so you know you are always betting on a safe and trustworthy site.

Check out the Mirror Betting Hubs Free Bets offers here .

Full terms and conditions apply | gambleaware.org | Gamble responsibly | 18+ | UK only

READ MORE: Free Bets & Bookmaker Sign Up Offers

Reach plc is committed to promoting safer gambling. All of our content and recommended bets are advised to those aged 18 or over. Odds are subject to change too.