Ruthless Pep Guardiola call on five Man City players showed what he thought of Arsenal defeat

Guardiola's teamsheet message

Manchester City seemed keen to move on from the Arsenal defeat, using the international break to put it behind them. But Pep Guardiola admitted that his side need to 'break' their losing run so as not to lose more ground in the title race (they could have been five points adrift of top spot with a loss against Brighton). And while he was looking forward, his team selection sent a message over what he really thought about the three defeats from the previous four in all competitions - and who was to blame.

Out was goalkeeper Ederson, rested after his time in Brazil, with Stefan Ortega starting his fourth league game in City's last 15. Ederson had started the previous 62. Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Mateo Kovacic and Rico Lewis were also replaced. That was the goalkeeper, two centre-backs and two central midfielders who started at Arsenal.

Rodri was back after his suspension, while John Stones was in for his first start of the season after injury. Those two alone made their partners look much better, but it felt telling that Guardiola tore apart the spine of his team that struggled to create against Arsenal. Two first-half goals against Brighton put City on course for a much-needed win, and back on track in the title race.

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Sharp shooter Haaland

13 months ago, at Wolves, Erling Haaland picked up possession in the opposition half, advanced, and unleashed a rocket into the bottom corner from just outside the area. 55 games later, the striker did the same against Brighton - on his left foot rather than his right - to put City in control against Roberto De Zerbi's side.

Incredibly, those two strikes