Man City's press has almost become non-existent and that is the 'most defining thing' about their torrid run of form. That is the verdict of former City defender Micah Richards, who believes Pep Guardiola's side have struggled to cope with the strain placed on them in the absence of Ballon d'Or winner Rodri through injury.

Pep Guardiola said his injury-hit Manchester City cannot maintain a high level for 90 minutes after Brighton’s late fightback at the Amex Stadium sent them to a fourth consecutive defeat. City were without key players,

City’s slump is set against the backdrop of Guardiola’s unresolved future. He is in the final year of his contract and it was widely expected within the club during the summer that he would leave in 2025, alongside director of football Txiki Begiristain, whose departure, and the arrival of Hugo Viana as his replacement, was confirmed in October.