Brighton vs Manchester Utd

As the 2023-24 Premier League season comes to a close, Manchester United will travel to the Amex Stadium to face Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday afternoon. Both teams are looking to end their campaigns on a positive note—United are still hoping to clinch a European spot, while Brighton aim to secure a top-half finish. Here’s an in-depth look at the upcoming clash.

Brighton & Hove Albion: Season Overview and Form

Brighton’s 2023-24 season has been a roller-coaster ride. Manager Roberto De Zerbi has faced numerous challenges, including injuries and the departure of key players. Despite these setbacks, Brighton initially held onto hopes of replicating last season’s sixth-place finish.

However, the Seagulls have struggled in the latter part of the season, winning only three of their last 15 matches across all competitions. Their offensive struggles have been particularly pronounced, scoring more than once in just one of their last 12 Premier League games and failing to score in seven of those matches.

Brighton showed some resilience recently with a 1-0 win against Aston Villa and a 1-1 draw at Newcastle. However, they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on Wednesday, with Danny Welbeck's late goal serving only as a consolation.

Currently sitting 10th, Brighton could drop into the bottom half of the table if they fail to secure points on Sunday and if results elsewhere go against them. This precarious position adds extra pressure on De Zerbi's squad to perform against a historically strong opponent.

Manchester United: Season Overview and Form

Manchester United’s season has been fraught with inconsistency and uncertainty. Under Erik ten Hag, the Red Devils have seen mixed results, with their current standing at eighth place marking a potential low point not seen in 34 years if they fail to secure a win and other results don’t go their way.

United's form has been patchy, with their latest league games reflecting this inconsistency. They snapped a two-game losing streak with a crucial 3-2 victory over Newcastle, keeping their slim hopes of European football alive. This win was particularly important as it was their last match at Old Trafford for the season, with young talents like Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo stepping up.

To secure a spot in the Europa Conference League, United need to better Newcastle’s result against Brentford. If they fail to do so, their only other route to European competition next season is by winning the FA Cup final against Manchester City—a daunting task.

Team News

Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton are dealing with a significant injury list. Captain Lewis Dunk was forced off at halftime in their midweek clash and is set to join several teammates on the sidelines, including Solly March, Kaoru Mitoma, Jack Hinshelwood, Pervis Estupinan, Evan Ferguson, James Milner, and Jan Paul van Hecke. Joel Veltman’s status is also uncertain due to an unspecified injury.

In Dunk’s absence, De Zerbi is likely to field Igor Julio alongside Adam Webster in central defense, with Tariq Lamptey at right-back and Valentin Barco at left-back. Joao Pedro, Brighton’s top scorer this season, will lead the attack, potentially supported by former United player Danny Welbeck and Adam Lallana, who is set to leave the club this summer.

Manchester United

United are also grappling with injuries. Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount, and Anthony Martial are all unavailable for the trip to Brighton. Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof have been recovering from their injuries and might be fit to return.

Ten Hag might bring back Rasmus Hojlund to the starting lineup, with Bruno Fernandes shifting back to his usual number 10 role. Lisandro Martinez and Marcus Rashford, who both made substitute appearances against Newcastle, are also likely to feature.