Celtic hero scores winner against Manchester City on debut

Manchester City are in their worst run of form since the appointment of Pep Guardiola. They have lost four straight games, the first time that has happened under the management of the Spaniard. The latest of those defeats came against Brighton & Hove Albion and a Celtic hero was at the centre of it all, scoring a 83rd minute winner against the Premier League champions.

Matt O'Riley won six trophies during his time at Celtic and was the club's best player last season. He had joined in early 2022 from MK Dons for a transfer fee in the region of £1.5 million. This summer, he moved to Brighton & Hove Albion for a figure believed to be around £30 million.

O'Riley has not had the easiest time since leaving Celtic. He suffered an injury immediately after arriving at Brighton & Hove Albion.

In fact, the game against Manchester City was his Premier League debut for the Seagulls. And it could not have been a better one. He came on as a substitute to score the winner for Brighton & Hove Albion.

Celtic hero scores winner against Manchester City on debut

Of course, those who saw O'Riley at Celtic know that he is good enough to play in the Premier League. And now, it feels like many down south will recognise that as well.

It is just one game and one goal. But it does not get better than scoring a winner against the Premier League champions on your debut in the English top flight.

O'Riley might no longer be a Celtic player, but he will always be fondly remembered for the things he did while at Parkhead. He was a top professional and even when he was being linked with a move away, and on the verge of leaving, he continued to give it his all on the pitch. We can only wish him the best.