Ilkay Gundogan has admitted ‘the opposition are so good’ as Manchester City’s challenging Premier League campaign continued.
Pep Guardiola’s side twice squandered the lead to draw with Brighton at the Etihad. Erling Haaland’s 100th Premier League goal involvement and a fine Omar Marmoush strike put the Citizens ahead, but the home side were pegged back through Pervis Estupinan’s free-kick and an Abdukodir Khusanov own goal.
FULL-TIME | The points are shared.#ManCity | @okx | @citcmancity pic.twitter.com/SUMWTrs6vI
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 15, 2025
The draw follows last weekend’s defeat at Nottingham Forest, as City’s hopes of Champions League qualification suffered a blow.
After a difficult defence of the Premier League title, the champions are now at risk of missing out on a top-four finish. City are fifth in the table, having played a game more than the sides immediately above them.
Speaking at full-time, Gundogan expressed his disappointment at the result and conceded that every game in the Premier League poses a real challenge.
“I feel personally very disappointed,” the German said, as per the BBC.
“After getting twice in front and actually playing quite well. It’s a bit frustrating to not get the three points.
“I think we were able to limit their possession. Second half, after conceding the second, it felt like we dropped in confidence and belief.
“We dropped a little bit and gave away easy chances. It’s important to stay calm. Of course, mistakes happen even at this level.
“The opposition are so good. Every game is tough. Then when you concede sometimes you try not to do overdo things.
“We need to expect the best from everyone every single day. I thought we had a good week of training.
“We want to transmit that power and energy into the game. Sometimes it isn’t enough.”
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