Old Trafford witnessed another chapter of Manchester United's deepening crisis as Brighton & Hove Albion delivered a masterclass in a commanding 3-1 victory, leaving Erik ten Hag's side languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
Dream Start Turns Nightmare for United
The match began promisingly for the Red Devils when summer signing Rasmus Hojlund thought he'd opened his account with a clinical finish, only for the goal to be correctly ruled out for offside. This early disappointment set the tone for another frustrating evening at the Theatre of Dreams.
Former United striker Danny Welbeck returned to haunt his old club, breaking the deadlock against the run of play with a well-taken finish that exposed United's defensive vulnerabilities.
Gross Punishes Sloppy Defending
German international Pascal Gross doubled Brighton's advantage early in the second half, capitalising on more questionable defending to put the Seagulls firmly in control. The midfield maestro's composure in front of goal highlighted the gulf in quality between the two sides.
United's brief resurgence came through Hannibal Mejbri, whose spectacular long-range strike offered a glimmer of hope. However, any momentum was swiftly extinguished when Joao Pedro restored Brighton's two-goal cushion, sealing all three points for the visitors.
Ten Hag's Troubles Deepen
This defeat marks Manchester United's worst start to a top-flight campaign since the 1989-90 season, with three losses in their opening five matches. The performance raised serious questions about Ten Hag's tactical approach and the team's defensive organisation.
Brighton, meanwhile, continue to impress under Roberto De Zerbi, displaying the fluid, attacking football that has become their trademark. The Seagulls' victory at Old Trafford reinforces their credentials as genuine European contenders.
As United fans streamed towards the exits long before the final whistle, the atmosphere at Old Trafford turned toxic, with growing discontent towards the Glazer ownership and concerns about the team's direction under Ten Hag.
