Brighton vs Manchester City: Lineups, Injuries, Predictions, How and Where to Watch

Expected Starting Lineups

Brighton (4–2–3–1): Verbruggen; Wieffer, van Hecke, Dunk, De Cuyper; Baleba, Ayari; Minteh, O'Riley, Mitoma; Welbeck

Manchester City (4–2–3–1): Trafford; Lewis, Stones, Dias, Aït-Nouri; Reijnders, Rodri; Bobb/Silva/Doku; Marmoush; Haaland

Injuries and Team News

Brighton's injury list is a problem. Webster, March are out, Enciso shouldn't be available yet as he continues his rehabilitation, and Rutter is in doubt. They're short of depth especially up front.

Manchester City has players missing too. Mateo Kovacic is out, Josko Gvardiol, Marcus Bettinelli and Kalvin Phillips as well. 

Match Context

Brighton is looking to convert Cup form into league momentum. They've looked good at times but are still waiting for their first Premier League win of the season. A big performance at home to City could be the spark they need.

City wants to bounce back quickly. The loss to Tottenham raised questions about their balance and consistency and with United and Arsenal next up they can't afford another defeat. 

Haaland's record against Brighton - five goals in five games - could be the difference again.

Predictions

Manchester City will start as the favorites in this match, with most outlets giving them around a 50–55% chance of winning the match. Brighton is much closer to the 25–30% range, and the draw is around 20–25%. 

But this match doesn't feel easy to call. Brighton at home is an energetic counter-attacking team, and City have just lost their last match, which adds interest to the encounter. 

Match Prediction: Brighton 1–2 Manchester City.