Red Devils’ Struggles Continue with Home Defeat

Brighton achieved a remarkable 3-1 victory against Manchester United, adding to the woes of Erik ten Hag’s side after a challenging fortnight marked by several setbacks.

Following a distressing last-minute loss against Arsenal, Jadon Sancho was excluded from the first-team squad, and Antony was granted a leave of absence due to assault allegations against him.

Brighton compounded United’s misery as focus shifted back to on-field matters on Saturday afternoon. Danny Welbeck, Pascal Gross, and Joao Pedro scored for Brighton, while Hannibal Mejbri managed a consolation goal for United.

This defeat marked the end of the Red Devils’ impressive 31-game unbeaten home run in all competitions. The last time they were beaten at Old Trafford in the league was in Ten Hag’s first match in charge.

Welbeck, facing his former club, opened the scoring. Marcus Rashford’s strike hit the woodwork before Rasmus Hojlund’s first goal for the club was disallowed by VAR. Gross, who had previously netted both goals in last season’s win at Old Trafford, extended Brighton’s lead early in the second half, before substitute Pedro added another goal.

While Hannibal scored his first goal for the club from a distance, it was not enough for a comeback similar to United’s last home game against Nottingham Forest. The focus now shifts to Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.

Brighton has a historic Europa League match against AEK Athens to look forward to, having won at Old Trafford for just the second time in their history.

De Zerbi made six surprising changes on Saturday, while Ten Hag made three and opted for a midfield diamond formation that initially troubled the visitors.

Rashford showcased his skill and perseverance with a low drive, narrowly saved by Jason Steele. Hojlund headed over before combining well with Rashford, who provided a cross.

Brighton remained composed and capitalized on a well-worked move to take a 20th-minute lead. Welbeck’s decisive strike, set up by Simon Adingra’s low ball, gave Brighton the advantage.

Despite United’s efforts, they found themselves level just before the break, with Hojlund appearing to score his first United goal. However, VAR intervention showed that the ball had gone out of play before Rashford made the pass.

Brighton continued to press for a second goal, with Gross skillfully evading Lisandro Martinez and netting in the 53rd minute. This left United reeling, prompting Ten Hag to make substitutions.

Martial’s introduction for Hojlund was met with audible discontent from the fans. Despite Rashford’s efforts, Brighton managed to score a third goal in the 71st minute through substitute Pedro.

A determined Hannibal immediately pulled one back for United with an impressive long-range effort. Despite Victor Lindelof’s attempt, Brighton intelligently managed the game and secured the victory.

In the closing stages, shots from Kaoru Mitoma, substitute Evan Ferguson, and debutant Ansu Fati were saved, highlighting Brighton’s defensive resilience. Onana denied Fati again in stoppage time.