Pundit predicts Manchester City will make light work of Brighton this weekend.
Paul Merson has told SkySports he expects Brighton and Hove Albion to be thrashed at home by Manchester City this weekend.
Brighton won promotion to the Premier League through the automatic places last season, ending a 34 year run of football outside England’s top flight.
Merson says he believes they will not have a happy return, arguing that Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will teach them a harsh lesson.
He is predicting a 4-0 away win for Manchester City when the two sides meet on Saturday evening.
Merson told SkySports: “This is a nightmare start for Brighton, a nightmare start.
“I fancy Manchester City to win the league, they look irresistible on the attack and playing against a Brighton side in front of an expectant home crowd, the Seagulls will have to have a go, playing into City’s hands.
“Chris Hughton’s men have to fight fire with fire and really test City’s new-look defence to have any chance of getting a result. If they don’t then I can only see one winner.”
City’s away form was impressive last season, earning more points on the road than any team apart from eventual champions Chelsea.
Brighton had a formidable home record in England’s second tier last season, the best in the Championship, but this is a big step up in class.
An early goal for City could really fray the nerves, but if Brighton score first then it could get very interesting.
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