Manchester City's miserable run reached a new low thanks to a late breakdown during their 2-1 loss against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, resulting in Pep Guardiola suffering four straight losses for the first time during his managerial tenure.
Guardiola's struggling team was holding onto the advantage that Erling Haaland had given them during the first half with just twelve minutes remaining. However, they faltered in the final minutes when Matt O'Riley scored Brighton's winning goal seven minutes from the end after Joao Pedro had equalized. Guardiola has lost four straight games for the first time in his illustrious managerial career, which included stints at Manchester City, Bayern Munich, as well as Barcelona.
After this loss, Manchester City has given Liverpool the opportunity to move up to the top of the standings in the Premier League by five points if they defeat Aston Villa during their next match later tonight.
If Nottingham Forest defeats Newcastle tomorrow, they will be just one point of the defending winners, but if Chelsea or Arsenal win at Stamford Bridge, they will be within two points of Guardiola's team. Brighton, meanwhile, is now only four points below Manchester City and has moved into the coveted top four with 19 points.
“I’m an important player for the team” : Joao Pedro
Joao Pedro said, “First, I’m happy to be back. I know I’m an important player for the team so when we win like this against a big team it is good. Now we have time to breathe and win more games. I had too many people there but I’m always told to follow the action so I was there and I’m happy to score. After two months out, I’m very happy to be back.”
The Brazil striker spoke about Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Matt O’Riley, who scored the winner against Manchester City. He said, “Very good to help the new players. His first game he got injured and I got close to him because I was injured also.”