Manchester City’s early‑season dominance has hit a snag, with the club recording its third straight Premier League loss on Saturday. After opening the campaign with seven consecutive wins, City were beaten 3‑1 by struggling Nottingham Forest, leaving them six points behind league‑leading Arsenal, who secured a 1‑0 victory over Hull.

City coach stresses calm amid defensive woes

Coach Enzo Maresca told the BBC that the team is “conceding too many goals unfortunately” and emphasized the need to use the upcoming international break to address defensive lapses. “No panic,” Maresca added, urging balance after a run of seven wins followed by three defeats.

Forest’s Liam Delap shines

Forest academy graduate Liam Delap scored both goals for the home side, becoming the first Forest player to net at home this season. His first came in the sixth minute after a quick break, and he completed a swift counter‑attack in the 18th minute to double the lead.

City pulled one back early in the second half when Jeremy Doku’s cross was deflected to Rayan Cherki, who fired into the top left corner. However, Forest restored a two‑goal advantage in the 74th minute when Delap finished a rapid counter‑attack.

Arsenal extends lead at the top

Meanwhile, Arsenal secured a narrow win over Hull City, with captain Martin Ødegaard scoring the decisive goal in the 72nd minute after a chance created by Noni Madueke. The victory moved Arsenal six points clear of Manchester City.

Other league action

Leeds United earned a 1‑0 win over Tottenham Hotspur thanks to a 97‑second strike from substitute Noah Okafor, lifting Leeds to eighth place. Tottenham complained about a challenge on Mathys Tel that resulted in a VAR review but no red card.

Newcastle United drew 1‑1 with Fulham, while Manchester United slipped into the relegation zone as they swapped places with Forest ahead of Sunday’s match against Aston Villa.

Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.