Historic Lows at Old Trafford as Brighton Oust United
Manchester United’s campaign has hit a new low after a 2-1 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, 11 January, confirmed their earliest exit from both domestic cups – The Football Association Challenge Cup and the Carabao Cup, since 1981-82.
Brajan Gruda’s opener set the tone 12 minutes into the match, followed by former striker Danny Welbeck haunting his old club with a thunderous strike at the 64-minute mark. Despite Benjamin Sesko’s late header five minutes before stoppage time, the match ended in tears for teenage substitute Shea Lacey, who was sent off for dissent on his debut.
The loss leaves United with a projected 40-game season, their lowest tally since the onset of the First World War. Interim boss Darren Fletcher, who concluded a winless two-match tenure, has identified the team’s defensive frailties as a primary concern.
Following the draw with Burnley last week, Fletcher remarked: “As a team, we need to improve in defending and not conceding as many goals.”
With no silverware left to play for, director of football Jason Wilcox is accelerating the search for a permanent successor. Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have both been interviewed, with Carrick reportedly impressing bosses with his tactical vision.
The new appointment is expected within 72 hours, as the club desperately chases a Champions League spot. United currently sit seventh with 32 points, trailing fourth-placed Liverpool by three points.
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