Manchester City host Brighton at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Before the Premier League meeting, Enzo Maresca warned his side about Brighton’s more direct and aggressive attacking style and said Antoine Semenyo is the only unavailable player.
Background before Saturday's meeting
The teams played in the Carabao Cup three days earlier, and City progressed on penalties after a 2-2 draw. GOAL said Manchester City are Premier League leaders and Brighton are third-placed. GOAL also said Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler declared his desire for revenge after Wednesday's cup exit.
Maresca on Brighton's style
Maresca said: "This season they are a bit different in style compared to last year and two years ago when I was in Chelsea. This season they are much more man to man, a bit more direct in the way they attack but the way they attack is always front foot and aggressive."
Maresca said: "They can score three, four, five goals against any team. They create many chances. That’s why you need the right balance... It’s going to be a tough game."
Availability update
Maresca said: "They are all available. Apart from Antoine Semenyo, the rest are all available."
On Semenyo, Maresca said: "He’s good. He’s in a good mood. He’s in the building making the recovery sessions and the therapy that he needs but it’s too early for now."
GOAL said Erling Haaland, Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and Gianluigi Donnarumma return to the squad after being rested.
Focus remains on Brighton
GOAL said Manchester City have upcoming trips to RB Leipzig and Nottingham Forest.
Maresca said: "I’m thinking about tomorrow. Just game by game."
