Manchester United's nightmare season plunged to a new historic low on Sunday as a 2-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion sent them crashing out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle.
A Season of Unwanted Records
The loss at Old Trafford on 11 January 2026 guarantees the club will end the campaign without a trophy, marking the earliest point in a season this has been confirmed since 1971. This follows an equally premature exit from the League Cup, making it the first time since 1982 that United have fallen at the first hurdle in both domestic cup competitions.
Interim manager Darren Fletcher, who took over following Ruben Amorim's departure, admitted the situation was "not Manchester United level." The defeat means the team is now set to play just 40 games this season, their fewest in a full campaign since the 1914-15 season, excluding wartime interruptions.
Brighton Capitalise on United's Fragility
Despite a bright start from the hosts, it was Brighton who struck first against the run of play. After a scramble in the box, Brajan Gruda hammered home a rebound to score his first goal since August. United's defensive frailties were exposed again for the second goal, with former Red Devil Danny Welbeck lashing in a powerful finish after being found by Gruda.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, who made six changes to his side, saw his team execute a cohesive game plan that repeatedly cut through a vulnerable United midfield and defence. The home side's right flank, where Mason Mount struggled to track Ferdi Kadioglu, was a particular area of weakness.
Late Consolation and Further Misery
A late corner from Bruno Fernandes was headed in by Benjamin Sesko for his third goal in two games, offering a faint hope of a comeback. However, any momentum was instantly killed when teenage substitute Shea Lacey received a second yellow card for petulantly throwing the ball away, ending his second senior appearance in tears.
The final whistle was met with loud boos from the Old Trafford faithful, a clear verdict on another dismal performance. Fletcher, who won the FA Cup as a United player, now seems certain to return to his role with the Under-18s. "Someone will come in and lead the team," he stated, effectively ruling himself out of the permanent job.
With the cup runs over, Fletcher challenged his players to salvage something from the wreckage by securing a Champions League place. "It's over to them," he said. "Don't waste the season." The danger for Manchester United is that this campaign has already become another wasted year in a growing list of disappointments.
