Brighton vs Man City: Confirmed Starting XIs for Premier League Clash

Match Details

Pep Guardiola’s side are looking to recover after a 2-0 home defeat against Tottenham last week, when goals from Brennan Johnson and João Palhinha sealed victory for the visitors. City’s early-season form has raised questions as they aim to mount a serious title challenge after finishing with their lowest points tally under Guardiola last season.

Summer signing Rayan Ait-Nouri limped off against Spurs but has recovered in time to start, while Rayan Cherki will hope for another chance to impress following his underwhelming full debut last weekend. Goalkeeper selection remains under scrutiny, with James Trafford keeping his place despite growing speculation over Ederson’s future.

Team News

Manchester City: Guardiola has opted to start with Trafford in goal, supported by a defence including Stones and Ait-Nouri. Rodri returns to the midfield alongside Silva and Bobb, while Haaland leads the attack.

Brighton: Fabian Hürzeler lines up with Welbeck leading the forward line, supported by Mitoma and Minteh on the flanks, with Dunk marshalling the defence.

Confirmed Line-Ups

Brighton & Hove Albion

Starting XI: Verbruggen, Dunk, Van Hecke, Veltman, De Cuyper, Hinshelwood, Baleba, Gomez, Minteh, Mitoma, Welbeck

Substitutes: Steele, Gruda, Georginio, Milner, Boscagli, Ayari, Kadioglu, O’Riley, Coppola

Manchester City

Starting XI: Trafford, Nunes, Khusanov, Stones, Ait-Nouri, Rodri, Silva, Bobb, Reijnders, Marmoush, Haaland

Substitutes: Ederson, Dias, Ake, Doku, Nico, Gündogan, Akanji, O’Reilly, Lewis

Conclusion

With both sides entering the contest looking to bounce back from defeats last weekend, the Amex Stadium clash promises high intensity. Guardiola’s selection hints at trust in his younger players, while Brighton will look to exploit home advantage. All eyes now turn to whether City can respond strongly or if Brighton can spring another upset against the champions.