Match Preview: Man United vs Brighton (Premier League)

Fixture: Manchester United vs Brighton

Competition: Premier League, Matchweek 22

Date: Sunday, 19 January 2025

Kick-off: 14:00 GMT

Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester

Manchester United host Brighton at Old Trafford in a crucial Premier League clash as both sides seek to climb the table. United are eager to build on their recent win over Southampton and establish consistency. Meanwhile, Brighton, aiming for European qualification, hope to build on a win at Ipswich Town last time out. With both teams needing points, this promises to be a tightly contested battle.

Last 5 Matches:

• W | H | 3-1 vs Southampton
• D | A | 2-2 vs Liverpool
• L | H | 0-2 vs Newcastle
• L | A | 0-2 vs Wolves
• L | H | 0-3 vs Bournemouth

United’s form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five games. Defensive lapses and a lack of composure in key moments have hindered them, but a morale-boosting victory over Southampton could provide the spark they need.

Last 5 Matches:

• W | H | 2-0 vs Ipswich
• D | H | 1-1 vs Arsenal
• D | A | 2-2 vs Aston Villa
• D | H | 0-0 vs Brentford
• D | A | 1-1 vs West Ham

Brighton’s defence has been impressive, but their inability to convert draws into wins has limited their upward momentum. With just one victory in their last five league outings, they’ll need to be more clinical in front of goal to challenge at Old Trafford.

• Victor Lindelof: Muscle injury, return uncertain.
• Mason Mount: Muscle injury, doubtful.
• Luke Shaw: Muscle injury, fitness to be assessed.
• Jonny Evans: Fitness doubt, unlikely to feature
  

• Evan Ferguson: Ankle injury, doubtful
• Igor Julio: Hamstring injury, unavailable.
• Ferdi Kadioglu: Toe injury, out indefinitely.
• James Milner: Hamstring injury, fitness unclear.
• Mats Wieffer: Thigh injury, doubtful
• Jack Hinshelwood: Lack of match fitness
  

• Goalkeeper: André Onana
• Defenders: Lisandro Martínez, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire,
• Midfielders: Diogo Dalot, Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, Noussair Mazraoui
• Attacking Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Amad Diallo
• Forward: Rasmus Højlund
  

• Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
• Defenders: Joël Veltman, Adam Webster, Jan Paul van Hecke, Pervis Estupiñán,
• Defensive Midfielder: Carlos Baleba
• Attacking Midfielders: Simon Adingra, Matt O’Riley, Yasin Ayari, Kaoru Mitoma
• Forward: João Pedro
  

Strengths:

• Solid midfield pairing of Ugarte and Mainoo, capable of breaking up play and creating
• opportunities. Young attacking talents like Garnacho and Diallo (if selected) bring pace and unpredictability.

Weaknesses:

• Inconsistent defence prone to errors under pressure.
• Lack of sustained goal-scoring threat outside of Rasmus Højlund.
  

Strengths:

• A compact defensive structure, limiting opposition chances.
• Creative outlets in Mitoma and João Pedro are capable of breaking down defences.

Weaknesses:

• Limited goal-scoring options with Evan Ferguson doubtful
• A tendency to sit back too often, leading to missed opportunities to seize control of games.
  

• Bruno Fernandes: The captain is United’s creative engine, the key to orchestrating attacking moves and providing leadership in midfield.
• Rasmus Højlund: The Danish striker’s movement and finishing ability make him a constant threat in the box.
• Amad Diallo: With his flair and speed, Garnacho offers United a dynamic option out wide.
  

• Kaoru Mitoma: A skilful winger who thrives on taking on defenders and creating chances from wide areas.
• João Pedro: Brighton’s focal point in attack, Pedro’s ability to hold up play and finish chances will be crucial.
• Matt O’Riley: Brighton’s midfield maestro, capable of dictating play and linking defence with attack.
  

Manchester United’s home advantage and quality in midfield should give them a slight edge in what promises to be a tight contest. Brighton’s defensive organisation will make it difficult for United, but the Red Devils’ firepower in attack could prove decisive.

Predicted Scoreline: Manchester United 2-1 Brighton

Manchester United have never lost to Brighton at Old Trafford in the Premier League. Out of their 12 meetings at the iconic venue, United have won 10 and drawn 2, showcasing their dominance in this fixture. Expect a competitive clash at the Theatre of Dreams as both teams look to secure vital points for their respective campaigns.

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All odds and markets are correct as of the date of publication.