United Review | Brighton at home | FA Cup

United 1 - 2 Brighton

The Darren Fletcher era ends in defeat at Old Trafford as we're knocked out the FA Cup

Author | Lee Francis

We had beaten the Seagulls 4-2 in the league in October but could not repeat the feat in our first home game of 2026 as we went out of the third round of the competition for the first time since 2014. This only means that 2025/2026 will be our shortest season for over 100 years. 

A summary of a grim January afternoon 

Darren Fletcher, in charge of his second match as interim head coach, made three changes from Wednesday’s 2-2 draw at Burnley. Casemiro and Ayden Heaven were named among the substitutes but Luke Shaw missed only his second game of the campaign. The trio were replaced in the XI by Mason Mount, Leny Yoro and Kobbie Mainoo, the latter making his second start in all competitions this term.

Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler made six changes from their midweek 1-1 draw at city, with Welbeck as captain among those recalled.

Brajan Gruda opened the scoring early on for the visitors and former United striker Danny Welbeck doubled the advantage after the break. We looked in trouble. 

Benjamin Sesko did manage to head a late consolation for the Reds, who had substitute Shea Lacey sent off for two yellow cards in the closing stages. 

A poor performance and our season is in danger of falling apart. Michael Carrick has a big job ahead of him.