Maresca attributes City defeat to lack of luck: 'Unfortunately, we aren't scoring goals'

The Premier League weekend served up several blockbuster encounters. League leaders Manchester City went head-to-head with this season's surprise package, Brighton, who have firmly established themselves in the top four. High stakes are also on the line in Sunday's showdown between fifth-placed Liverpool and Arsenal, where a positive result could send the Gunners top of the table.

Manchester City took on Brighton aiming to bounce back from a 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa—their first stumble of the campaign following an impressive seven-match winning run to start the season. However, City failed to pick up any points once again as Brighton claimed a 1-0 victory to secure their sixth win of the season, courtesy of an 11th-minute goal from Swedish midfielder Yasin Ayari.

Following a cross from the right that the hosts failed to deal with, Maxim De Cuyper squared the ball into the centre, allowing Ayari to neatly beat the home goalkeeper. Despite sustained pressure and waves of attacks from the home side, there were no further goals. City outshot their opponents 21-7, with six efforts on target compared to Brighton's three. Star striker Erling Haaland also failed to find the net, snapping a four-game scoring streak after being rested in midweek cup action by manager Enzo Maresca.

"It’s a strange feeling. We created enough chances to win the match. Unfortunately, we aren't scoring goals. I believe we'll have more luck in the future, because that's also a part of football," remarked Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca.

Despite the loss, Maresca's side remained at the top of the Premier League table, though only ahead of Arsenal on goal difference prior to the Gunners' Sunday trip to Liverpool.

"I think our reaction to conceding was spot on. We controlled the game, especially in the second half. Unfortunately, the situation is what it is right now, and we just have to improve and move forward. We are only nine games in and sitting at the top. We never expected to win every match. It's normal to go through spells like this, so we must understand what needs improving and try to win the next fixtures," Maresca stated.

Brighton, who started the Premier League campaign in fine form, had recently hit a rough patch. The Seagulls were held to a 0-0 draw away at Jablonec in the Conference League, suffered a 2-0 league defeat at Liverpool, and were knocked out of the EFL Cup on penalties by Manchester City on Wednesday following a 2-2 draw. On Saturday, however, they served up the ultimate payback.

For 33-year-old manager Fabian Hürzeler, this was a massive victory.

"It means a lot to the team and the club. Before the match, I said coming here and winning was all about belief. I think my players suffered out there, but they stuck together. It wasn't the easiest match and, of course, we rode our luck at times, but in the end we always believed we could win this game. I'm really happy and proud of the players," Hürzeler noted.