Alleyne, who was only recalled from a loan spell at Watford earlier this week, and Uzbek international Khusanov were paired together at the heart of a new-look Blues’ backline with both producing fine individual performances against a dangerous Brighton side.
Though Erling Haaland’s 40th minutes penalty opened the scoring for City, a 60th minute leveller from Kaoru Mitoma meant Guardiola’s side had to settle for a draw for the third successive game.
But reflecting on the game as a whole, the Blues manager was keen to praise the rich promise and potential of both Alleyne and Khusanov.
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“They played exceptional. Khusanov was incredible. He helped us so much with long balls in behind,” Pep said.
“He controlled all the width. He will grow up and he has to be more involved in the play and build up but it is a question of time. He was top.
“Max arrived two days ago and did one training session yesterday.
“Of course, in the past he was training with us a lot. I say thank you to Watford and Javi Gracia, they helped him a lot to grow up as a football player.
“He was fast in transition and was really exceptional. He missed one ball but the rest, he was top.
“Unfortunately today we could not deliver a win in the Premier League, but he will have many in the future.”
Play the video to watch Pep’s press conference in full…
