Manchester United Faces Crucial Tests as Ruben Amorim's Struggles Continue: Rangers and Fulham Clashes Loom

Manchester United’s turbulent season hit another low after they suffered a humbling 3-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford. The visitors delivered a clinical performance, capitalizing on United's defensive disarray and lack of cohesion. Goals from Yankuba Minteh, Kaoru Mitoma, and Georginio Rutter left the Red Devils reeling despite a consolation penalty from Bruno Fernandes.

The loss deepens United’s struggles under head coach Ruben Amorim, who now faces mounting pressure after overseeing just three league wins in eleven matches. The defeat, their sixth at home this season, a record not seen since the 1893-94 season, leaves the team languishing in 13th place—a far cry from the expectations of a club of their stature. Conversely, Brighton showcased their attacking verve and tactical organization, reaffirming their credentials as one of the Premier League’s most exciting sides.  

The loss highlighted ongoing defensive frailties and inconsistent performances under manager Rúben Amorim. Despite these setbacks, Amorim remains committed to his tactical approach, emphasizing the need for perseverance during this challenging period. He has acknowledged the team's struggles. In his assessment, Rúben Amorim did not mince words, describing this team as potentially "We are the worst Manchester United team in history."  

Manchester United's Disastrous Brighton Defeat: How the game unfolded

Brighton struck early through Yankuba Minteh, who capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 5th minute. Bruno Fernandes restored parity from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute, but the Red Devils failed to add to their tally throughout the remaining portion of the game. 

The half ended 1-1, but not before a few scares from both sides in the 43rd and 45th minutes. First, Minteh grabbed a stray pass and played Welbeck into the area, but Dalot slid in to block the former Red Devil's shot, and De Ligt hammered the loose ball clear. The final chance before the break went to Manchester United when Fernandes drilled a free-kick in towards Maguire at the far post for United, and the defender was unmarked as he sent a downward header back across the face of the goal and wide, only to see the offside flag go up anyway to settle the visitor's nerves.  

Coach Amorim hoped to spur his team on at halftime with his power talk, but things went south in the second half. Kaoru Mitoma doubled the lead in the 60th minute, expertly finishing after a swift counterattack. United's backline looked disjointed, unable to cope with Brighton's quick transitions. Despite United’s attempts to rally, Brighton extended their lead in the 65th minute. Georginio Rutter pounced on a howler by André Onana, sealing the result 3-1 with his first goal against Manchester United.  

MANCHESTER UNITED PLAYER RATINGS (3-4-2-1)

GK-Andre Onana: 3/10 Onana’s performance was below the standard expected of a Manchester United goalkeeper. His error significantly impacted the game, and while he wasn’t solely responsible for the defeat, his struggles epitomized United's defensive vulnerabilities. 

CB-Matthijs de Ligt: 5/10 While De Ligt showed glimpses of his defensive qualities, his overall impact was limited in a disjointed Manchester United backline. The lack of coordination and defensive resilience contributed to the team’s inability to contain Brighton’s attacking threats. 

CB-Harry Maguire: 5/10 Maguire's performance was below par. He could not provide the solidity and leadership required in United's defensive setup. While his aerial ability was a minor positive, his lack of pace and positioning issues overshadowed his contributions. 

CB-Leny Yoro: 5/10 Yoro's performance was a mix of promising moments and areas for improvement. While his composure and passing, lapses in positioning and decision-making highlighted the need for further development. 

RW-Diogo Dalot: 6/10 Dalot’s performance highlighted the limitations of deploying him as a left winger. While his effort was evident, the lack of attacking flair and positional awareness hindered United’s effectiveness. A more natural attacking player might have provided the spark United needed in this role. 

DM-Manuel Ugarte: 5/10 Ugarte's performance was below his usual standards, contributing to Brighton's overrun and outplaying of Manchester United's midfield. His inability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively left the team vulnerable and lacking control in the centre of the park. 

DM-Kobbie Mainoo: 5/10 Mainoo's performance reflected the broader challenges faced by Manchester United during the match. While he showed moments of promise, inconsistencies and the pressure of the situation seemed to affect his overall impact on the game. 

LW - Noussair Mazraoui: 4/10 Mazraoui's performance was below his usual standards, as he struggled defensively and offered little going forward. The varying ratings reflect a consensus that he had a challenging game, particularly in handling Brighton's offensive threats. 

LS-Amad Diallo: 7/10 While opinions on Diallo's performance varied, he was generally regarded as one of Manchester United's more effective players in an otherwise disappointing team display. His ability to create opportunities and apply pressure highlighted his potential, even if the end product was lacking on this occasion. 

RS-Bruno Fernandes: 6/10 While Fernandes' penalty was a highlight, his overall performance was underwhelming. His inability to consistently influence play and create significant chances contributed to United's struggles in the match. 

Joshua Zirkzee: 5/10 Zirkzee's performance was a mix of positive contributions and missed opportunities. While he played a role in United's sole goal and provided some support in attack, his overall impact was limited, and he could have done more to influence the match. 

Substitutes: 

• Toby Collyer: Came on in the 64th minute; rated 6.5/10  

• Alejandro Garnacho: Entered in the 64th minute; received a 5.8/10 from 90min  

• Antony: Substituted in the 84th minute; not rated due to limited playtime. 

• Rasmus Hojlund: Came on in the 84th minute; not rated due to limited playtime. 

(Manager) Ruben Amorim: This loss extended United's winless streak to six out of eleven Premier League matches under his leadership. United has lost ten games in twenty-two overall. This record places United 13th in the league, starkly contrasting the club's storied history. 

United must regroup quickly before facing Rangers in the Europa League. A positive result is essential to lift morale and avoid further scrutiny.