Manchester City's difficult run continued with a surprising 3-1 defeat away to Nottingham Forest, marking their third consecutive loss in the Premier League.

Forest made an immediate impact, taking the lead inside six minutes through Jair Cunha. Liam Delap then doubled the advantage in the 18th minute, punishing City's defensive mistakes with a powerful finish.

The visitors responded after the break, with Rayan Cherki producing a superb half-volley to bring City back into the contest. Despite dominating possession and creating sustained pressure, Pep Guardiola's side struggled to find another breakthrough.

Instead, Delap struck again in the 73rd minute, finishing a counter-attack to complete his brace against his former club.

The result lifts Nottingham Forest out of the relegation zone and leaves Manchester City six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.

For City, the concern is growing. Three defeats in a row have turned an impressive start into a serious title-race challenge.

Photograph: Andrew Boyers/Action Images/Reuters