After ending 2025 with a thrilling win streak, Manchester United have struggled to maintain momentum, drawing three successive Premier League matches, including a 2-2 stalemate with Burnley, softfootball reported. The Red Devils will look to regain form when they face Brighton tomorrow, January 11.
Man United posted on their X handle,
We host the Seagulls in the #FACup this weekend 🏆
Brighton & Hove Albion have long been a tricky opponent in the FA Cup, reaching the last five third-round ties with confidence, despite limited Premier League success.
The Seagulls earned a 0-0 draw against Manchester City recently, while Matheus Cunha rescues point for Manchester United against Leeds at Elland Road demonstrated the Red Devils’ resilience up front. Brighton have managed just one away win since October, meaning Old Trafford could once again prove a stumbling block for them.
Team News
Man United welcome back Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo from injury, while Harry Maguire is fit again.
Only Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined, with Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui away at AFCON. Fletcher may pair Mainoo with Casemiro and continue relying on Cunha to lead the line.
Brighton could see Joel Veltman and Charalampos Kostoulas return, though Yankuba Minteh is doubtful. Mats Wieffer, Solly March, Adam Webster, Stefanos Tzimas, and Carlos Baleba remain unavailable. Manager Fabian Hurzeler hinted at rotation for the trip to Manchester.
Possible Lineups
Manchester United: Bayindir; Dalot, Maguire, Yoro, Shaw; Mainoo, Ugarte; Cunha, Fernandes, Dorgu; Sesko
Brighton & Hove Albion: Steele; Veltman, Dunk, Boscagli, De Cuyper; Milner, Gross; Mitoma, Gomez, Watson; Welbeck
Softfootball Prediction
Manchester United 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion (a.e.t, Man Utd win on penalties) a tense clash expected to go the distance with spot kicks deciding the winner.
