The visitors scored three times in a blistering first-half performance. Ilkay Gundogan opened the scoring before Phil Foden struck twice.
It would have left fans wondering how many they would get and Brighton could have opted to limit the damage but they came out with a point to prove in a valiant second-half performance.
They managed one goal back — substitute Alexis Mac Allister scoring from the spot — but on another day they could have pulled off a remarkable comeback with a number of chances to score.
It speaks volumes that Pep Guardiola's side began time-wasting as Brighton threatened to fight-back. However, Riyad Mahrez added gloss to the scoreline late on as Manchester City sealed a 4-1 victory.
Scroll down and click through to see how they rated:
They managed one goal back — substitute Alexis Mac Allister scoring from the spot — but on another day they could have pulled off a remarkable comeback with a number of chances to score.
5. Joel Veltman 6
A quiet evening for the Dutchman, without doing too much wrong. Although, he was lucky to avoid a yellow card after an accumulation of fouls
6. Jakub Moder 7
A passenger in the first-half but he stepped his game up after the break. Brilliant one-two with Mwepu before playing in Trossard whose shot was saved. Had a shot deflected shot saved after driving run
7. Solly March 7
Back in the starting line-up for the first time in four league games, replacing Shane Duffy. He started in a more defensive midfield role but he moved higher up after Maupay was hooked. Had a powerful shot well saved by Ederson as Albion looked to fight back from 3-0 down. Had a great chance to find Maupay in a prime scoring position but his cross was cut out.
8. Leandro Trossard 7
Quiet in the first half, and was often wasteful in possession — which frustrated Graham Potter. He also wasted a good chance to equalise. He came to life in the second half, though. A superb piece of skill started a dangerous counter attack which March wasted. Trossard tested Ederson on more than one occasion.