Manchester City host Brighton tonight while they aim to arrest a run of back-to-back draws that has seen them fall six points behind leaders Arsenal.
Pep Guardiola’s side return to the Etihad Stadium facing a significant injury crisis in the heart of their defence. After dominant but ultimately frustrating draws against Sunderland and Chelsea, the hosts must find a way to make their possession more clinical while managing a thinned squad. With Arsenal continuing their relentless form, there is no further margin for error if City are to maintain their title challenge.
Manchester City Team News
Guardiola is currently navigating a defensive emergency. Both Rúben Dias and Joško Gvardiol were forced off in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea and are confirmed absentees. Gvardiol faces a long-term layoff with an ankle fracture, while Dias will be missing for at least six weeks. They join John Stones on the sidelines, leaving City with only four fit senior defenders.
Consequently, Nathan Aké is expected to be thrust straight back into the starting XI alongside youngster Abdukodir Khusanov. Nico O’Reilly is poised to continue at left-back, while Rico Lewis could replace Matheus Nunes on the opposite flank. In midfield, Rodri will anchor the side, providing the platform for Phil Foden and Tijjani Reijnders to create. Erling Haaland leads the line, desperate to end a three-game scoreless streak in the Premier League.
Manchester City Predicted Lineup
Manchester City predicted XI: Donnarumma; Lewis, Khusanov, Aké, O’Reilly; Rodri; Cherki, Foden, Reijnders, Doku; Haaland
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, 7 January 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.
How to watch Manchester City vs Brighton?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Ultra HD. Coverage is also available via SKY GO and NOW TV.
Read more- Pep Guardiola reacts to Ruben Amorim sacking by Man Utd
See Also- Two surprise Man Utd candidates emerge as new manager search underway
