Guardiola’s woes continue as Brighton come back to beat City

Manchester City’s unprecedented slump continued as Brighton staged a remarkable second-half comeback to inflict a fourth consecutive defeat on Pep Guardiola’s champions at the Amex Stadium.

Despite taking an early lead through Erling Haaland’s 12th Premier League goal of the season in the 23rd minute, City succumbed to mounting pressure from Brighton’s relentless attacking display.

The Norwegian striker had converted at the second attempt following Mateo Kovacic’s assist, suggesting City might end their worst run under Guardiola.

However, Brighton’s persistence paid off when substitute Joao Pedro capitalized on a goalmouth scramble with 12 minutes remaining.

The hosts completed their turnaround five minutes later as Matt O’Riley, making his return from injury since his Celtic transfer, broke through City’s fragile defense to beat Ederson.

The defeat marks the first time since 2006 that Manchester City have lost four consecutive matches, and Guardiola’s first such sequence since his Bayern Munich tenure in 2014-15.

The absence of key figures Rodri, Ruben Dias, and John Stones has left City notably vulnerable, with Brighton spurning several opportunities before their breakthrough, including Jack Hinshelwood’s point-blank header and Georginio Rutter’s missed chance.

While Kevin De Bruyne’s late appearance as a substitute offered a glimmer of hope for the champions, their defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed by Brighton’s high-intensity approach under Fabian Hurzeler.

The international break now provides Guardiola with a crucial opportunity to regroup before facing Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium on November 23.

Though it would be premature to discount City’s title credentials given their championship pedigree, their current form and extensive injury list have potentially opened the door for their rivals in the Premier League race.