Valentin Barco said he was proud of his full debut but disappointed with defeat after going up against Manchester City – and a world champion.

The signing from Boca Juniors gave fans few moments to cheer during the 4-0 defeat as he made his first start for the Seagulls.

Roberto De Zerbi rated him Albion’s best player on the night.

Barco said: “I’m sad for the defeat, which is not what we wanted.

“We knew that City are a great team and it was painful but also for my part I’m happy to make my debut, to be in the team and being out on the pitch.”

Barco has been given time to find his feet in England, being given just a few minutes off the bench in matches at Wolves and Liverpool.

He said: “It is a completely different football. I am adapting. Now the coach feels I’m prepared to go out on the pitch.

Julian Alvarez rounded off the City win with a second-half finish.

Barco said: “I have great admiration for him. He’s a world champion.

“We spoke before the match about exchanging shirts.”