Manchester City suffered their first defeat of the 2026/27 Premier League season on Saturday after Aston Villa secured a 2-1 victory at Villa Park, bringing the champions’ winning start to an end.
The defeat ended City’s run of seven consecutive league victories and denied manager Enzo Maresca’s side the opportunity to become one of the few teams to open a Premier League campaign with eight straight wins. Nicolas Jackson scored twice for Villa, while Erling Haaland was on target for the visitors.
Villa took the lead in the sixth minute when City defender Marc Guehi failed to control a pass, allowing John McGinn to seize possession and set up Jackson. The striker took advantage of the defensive lapse, finishing emphatically to put the hosts ahead.
City responded with sustained pressure as they searched for an equaliser. Iliman Ndiaye came close to restoring parity, but his effort struck the post, while Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made important saves to keep the visitors at bay.
The breakthrough eventually arrived seven minutes into the second half when Haaland rose to head home Ndiaye’s cross in the 52nd minute. The goal brought City back into the contest and appeared to set the stage for a comeback.
However, Villa regained the advantage on the hour mark. Substitute Ibrahim Mbaye delivered a low cross into the penalty area, and Jackson finished from close range to complete his brace and put Unai Emery’s men back in front.
City pushed for another equaliser in the closing stages, with Haaland coming close through a late header. But Villa defender Ian Maatsen cleared the effort off the goal line, helping the home side preserve their lead until the final whistle.
The result also extended Villa’s impressive home record against City, marking their fourth consecutive home league victory over the Manchester club. It was also a significant result for Emery’s side as they continued their efforts to climb the Premier League standings.
Despite the setback, City remained top of the table on 21 points at the end of the match, although Arsenal had an opportunity to draw level when they hosted Everton later on Saturday. Villa, meanwhile, moved into sixth place with 11 points.
The defeat represents an early test for Maresca, whose team had looked unstoppable during their opening seven league matches. City will now look to recover in their next Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion on October 31, while Villa are scheduled to face Bournemouth in the League Cup before returning to league action.
