Manchester United travel to face Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday lunchtime.
Erik ten Hag’s team are aiming to build on a hard-fought 1-0 win over Fulham on the opening weekend, as a goal from debutant Joshua Zirkzee started the season with three points.
Clashes with Brighton have proven to be challenging for Manchester United of late, who have lost four of their last six meetings with the Seagulls. However, a 2-0 win at the Amex Stadium in May offers encouragement ahead of the weekend.
Manchester United XI vs Brighton – Predicted lineup and team news
Manchester United Team News
Erik ten Hag is without a number of senior stars for the trip to the south coast with Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro and Rasmus Hojlund among the big-name absentees.
The Red Devils lacked presence in the absence of a recognised forward against Fulham and Zirkzee – fresh from his match-winning intervention from the bench – is pushing for a full debut at Brighton. Alejandro Garnacho, who set up Zirkzee’s winner, is also expected to return after starting the Community Shield against Manchester City and clash with Fulham from the bench.
Matthijs de Ligt also made his debut as a substitute against Fulham, though it remains to be seen whether Ten Hag opts to change a backline that recorded a clean sheet last time out. Diogo Dalot deputised at left-back in the absence of Shaw with summer signing Noussair Mazraoui impressive on his first appearance at Old Trafford.
❤️ Ruud x Rashy ❤️#MUFC || #PL pic.twitter.com/4BSml0VKtW
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 23, 2024
The Morocco international looked comfortable in possession, won 6/7 of his defensive duels and misplaced just three passes (35/38) during the win over Fulham.
Casemiro’s improved performance will also offer encouragement after the Brazilian’s up-and-down 2023/24 season. United are currently pushing to sign Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain to provide competition for the five-time Champions League winner.
Mason Mount failed to make an impact, however, and could be dropped in order to bring Zirkzee into the starting side, while Victor Lindelof (toe) is a doubt. Tyrell Malacia (knee) continues to be unavailable for selection after missing the entire 2023/24 campaign.
Manchester United Predicted Lineup vs Fulham
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Casemiro, Mainoo, Fernandes; Garnacho; Rashford, Zirkzee.
Brighton vs Manchester United kick-off time and TV channel
Manchester United make the trip to Brighton on Saturday 24th August. The game will be shown live on TNT Sports 1 with coverage starting from 11am. Kick-off is at 12:30pm.
