JUST IN: Frustrated Pep Guardiola Outburst in match altercation with Brighton star Amid revealing what he was told that triggered reaction .
The Citizens took an early lead on the south coast thanks to Erling Haaland’s record-breaking goal, his 75th in the top-flight.
However, the Seagulls staged a comeback to take all three points with late goals from Joao Pedro and Matt O’Riley.
This loss marks City’s fourth consecutive competitive defeat, a streak they haven’t experienced since August 2006, and it’s the first time in Pep Guardiola’s 17-year managerial career that he’s lost so many games in a row.
After the final whistle, Guardiola expressed his frustration toward Van Hecke, with cameras capturing their heated exchange. The incident stemmed from Van Hecke pulling down Haaland in stoppage time as he shielded the ball, allowing goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen to claim it. Haaland received a yellow card for his animated reaction towards the Dutch defender.
Following the game, Guardiola approached Van Hecke, whispering something in his ear before they shook hands. Later, he shared what he told him, saying, “He was strong with Erling. I said, ‘When Erling stands up to you, stay on your feet, don’t go to the grass.’ But he played a really good game.”
On City’s current form, Guardiola reflected: “We’ve lost two in the Premier League. We need to focus on our victories and defeats, and we’ll win plenty. We’re not far off – second place as we head into the international break. It’s disappointing to lose two in a row, and while there are good moments, we need consistency in every minute. We have to make changes to start winning again.”