Manchester United are inconsistent, while Brighton score freely: Manchester United vs Brighton prediction
The third-round EFL Cup clash between Manchester United and Brighton will take place on September 16 at Old Trafford. The hosts head into the tie after suffering defeat in the Manchester derby, while the visitors thrashed Coventry 5-0 in their last match.
Manchester United: just one win in four matches
Michael Carrick's side have made an underwhelming start to the Premier League season, recording just one win, one draw and two defeats. In their last league outing, United lost 1-0 to Manchester City and once again failed to keep a clean sheet.
The situation is further complicated by a string of injuries: Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Amad Diallo, Tom Heaton and Carlos Baleba are all sidelined, while Luke Shaw remains a doubt. Benjamin Sesko, however, could be handed a starting role.
Brighton: the league's best attack at the start of the season
Fabian Hürzeler's team have collected seven points from four Premier League matches and scored 13 goals. Last weekend, Brighton underlined their excellent attacking form by thrashing Coventry 5-0.
The visitors also have a lengthy injury list, but they continue to create chances on a regular basis. Pascal Groß has traditionally performed particularly well against Manchester United, while Brighton as a whole have won seven of their last 11 meetings with United in all competitions.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Brighton have scored 13 goals in their opening four Premier League matches.
- Manchester United have yet to keep a clean sheet in the league.
- Brighton have won seven of their last 11 meetings with Manchester United in all competitions.
The visitors look more dangerous going forward: Manchester United vs Brighton prediction
United have lacked consistency both defensively and in the final third. Against that backdrop, facing one of the most prolific teams at the start of the season looks especially challenging.
Brighton are also far from full strength, but they are currently much sharper in attack. If the visitors maintain their current efficiency, they are capable of progressing in 90 minutes.
