Overview
- Manchester United surrendered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to Brighton at Old Trafford on Sept 16, exiting the Carabao Cup after Brighton scored three second-half goals.
- Michael Carrick publicly accepted responsibility for the collapse and said the performance was "unacceptable" as large parts of the home crowd booed the players at full time.
- Opta data reported that this was the first time since 1976 United had lost at Old Trafford after leading by two goals, a statistic pundits used to underline the severity of the collapse.
- Commentators and former players pointed to the club’s summer recruitment that prioritised midfield signings over defensive additions, arguing Carrick was left with limited defensive resources and options.
- Teenager Shea Lacey scored on his full debut and provided a rare positive, but the loss increases focus on Carrick’s short-term results, the upcoming Fulham match and the January transfer window as potential turning points.