Janice R. Andrews
A heated exchange between Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola and Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke has drawn attention following Brighton’s 2-1 victory over City. The incident stemmed from a late-game confrontation between City’s striker Erling Haaland and Van Hecke, which resulted in yellow cards for both players.
Brighton’s comeback victory, orchestrated by Joao Pedro’s goal and assist after Haaland’s opening strike, dealt City their fourth consecutive defeat—an unprecedented run in Guardiola’s managerial career. The loss adds significance to City’s upcoming fixtures against Tottenham and Liverpool after the international break.
Post-match, Guardiola addressed his conversation with Van Hecke, stating via reporter Ryan Taylor: “He was strong with Erling; I told him, ‘When Erling stands up to you, stay on your feet, don’t go to the grass.’ But he played a really good game.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer faces uncertainty for their Arsenal clash after sustaining a knee injury from Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez’s challenge.
