Overview
- Manchester City lost 2-1 at Brighton for a second straight league defeat, leaving them on three points from nine after three matches.
- Erling Haaland put City ahead before James Milner equalized from the spot and Brajan Gruda struck an 89th-minute winner.
- Making his first Premier League start in 11 months after an ACL layoff and groin setback, Rodri said he is “not Messi,” stressed the team must improve collectively, and lamented “kids’ mistakes.”
- Pep Guardiola said City “forgot to pass the ball” in the final half-hour and resorted to long balls, calling the display not good enough.
- Despite spending reported at over £320m to refresh the squad, new arrivals have yet to gel, and analysts note Spain will also be watching Rodri’s fitness closely during the international break.