Manchester City suffered their second consecutive Premier League defeat after going down 1–0 to Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Saturday, but Enzo Maresca’s side remain top of the table on goal difference.

Yasin Ayari scored the decisive goal in the 11th minute, converting an assist from Maxim De Cuyper to hand Brighton all three points in a crucial encounter.

City struggled to find a response after falling behind early, with Brighton maintaining their advantage until the final whistle to secure an impressive victory.

The result leaves City on 21 points, level with second-placed Arsenal, but ahead of the Gunners on goal difference.

Brighton, meanwhile, climbed to third place following the victory, strengthening their position among the early contenders in the Premier League title race.

City’s consecutive defeats have increased the pressure on Maresca’s side, particularly with Arsenal preparing for a crucial trip to Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday.

The encounter between Arsenal and Liverpool could have significant implications for the title race, with the Gunners having an opportunity to overtake City at the summit.