Manchester United will be looking for their first points of the season against Brighton after a disastrous opener at Old Trafford against Crystal Palace which ended 3-1 to the London side. In contrast, Brighton will be looking to continue their winning streak, after a fine away performance against Newcastle last week saw Graham Potter’s side walk away from St James’ Park with all three points with a 3-0 win.
Ole Gunna Solksjaer’s reds will be looking to put in a good performance to distract fans from their oddly quiet summer transfer window which has left United fans angry and confused as to why their side hasn’t recruited new troops in order to really challenge in the Premiership and the Champions League this season.
Donny Van De Beeks arrival from Ajax has softened the blow slightly; with a goal on his debut, he showed a glimmer of hope in what was a shocking performance against Palace. However, United fans are demanding more with the prospect of winger Jadon Sancho still on the cards to join after a poor attacking display last week. The result will be a big indication to where United may have to set their sights in the final remaining two weeks of the window.
Brighton have recruited well over the summer. Despite not buying in quantity, the quality Potter has bought into the side is indisputable, with the acquisition of Adam Lallana from Liverpool providing a creative outlet that Brighton have been so desperately craving the past couple of seasons.
Brighton have poached a player from Ajax themselves with the veteran centre back Joel Veltman, for which seemed like a steal of only 900k. More importantly, they have drastically improved their defence with the return of Ben White who will surely play a vital role in the Seagulls defence after a stellar season in the Championship with title winners, Leeds.
Predicted Line-ups:
Prediction:
I think this will be a tight game. Brighton certainly shouldn’t be underestimated by Solksjaer’s men. Maupay is a fine striker and certainly has a goal in him. Lamptey has also been a breath of fresh air in the last two games, putting in some astounding performances.
United will be looking to Bruno to be a creative spark in this game. If he is on fine form, Brighton’s three at the back could have a problem with an attacking, pacey trio of Martial, Greenwood and Rashford, United certainly have some goals in them.
Overall, I think Ole’s men will come out on top.
Brighton 1 – 3 Manchester United