Manchester City tasted their second league loss this season Saturday, falling 1‑0 to surprise Brighton, now sitting third. Arsenal could seize the chance to claim top spot Sunday against Liverpool.
City’s grip on first place slipped at the Etihad on Sunday. After the back‑to‑back defeat to Brighton, the Citizens see their rivals close to within two points in the table.
Enzo Maresca’s side was shocked early when Yasin Ayari struck in the 11th minute, finding space six yards from goal after a low cross from left‑back Maxim De Cuyper. The Seagulls’ win cements third place with 19 points, ahead of Chelsea (fourth, 16) who had earlier beaten Manchester United 2‑0.
Arsenal could retake the top spot at Anfield.
Manchester endured their first loss last weekend at Aston Villa (2‑1), ending a flawless run of seven wins. After a Champions League setback to PSG (4‑2) on Oct 14, Haaland and co. suffered a repeat defeat, this time at the hands of Unai Emery’s Brighton and Fabian Hürzeler’s Lyon. The double blow underscores City’s vulnerability this season.
Despite the setback, Rayan Cherki’s side still leads with 21 points—though the summit may not last. The leader’s throne could change if Arsenal (second, 21) hold Liverpool at bay Sunday 17:30 in the ninth‑round clash.