FA Cup 2025-26 : Manchester United vs Brighton Live, Preview and Lineups

Manchester United vs Brighton
MATCH INFO
MATCH :	Manchester United vs Brighton
COMPETITION :	FA Cup 2025-26
DATE:	121- 01 - 2026
TIME:	10.00 PM IST   08.30 PM UAE
STADIUM	Stadium

Match Live Info

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Prediction and Preview

Manchester United 3 - 1  Brighton

Manchester United possible starting lineup:

Bayindir; Dalot, Maguire, Yoro, Shaw; Mainoo, Ugarte; Cunha, Fernandes, Dorgu; Sesko

Brighton & Hove Albion possible starting lineup:

Steele; Veltman, Dunk, Boscagli, De Cuyper; Milner, Gross; Mitoma, Gomez, Watson; Welbeck

Manchester United received a timely boost to their midfield ahead of the Burnley clash, with both Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo returning from injury. Mainoo, in particular, is being widely tipped to spark a revival under the new regime following Ruben Amorim’s departure, and his presence offers renewed balance in the centre of the park.

Harry Maguire was named on the bench after recovering from a minor issue, leaving Matthijs de Ligt (back injury) as the hosts’ only confirmed absentee. However, United remain without Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui, all of whom are still away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.

A switch between Mainoo and Casemiro is a realistic option in midfield, while Matheus Cunha will be chasing a slice of history. The Brazilian forward is aiming to become just the fifth player since 1992 to score in five consecutive FA Cup matches, joining an elite list that includes Marc Overmars, Darren Bent, Wayne Rooney and Romelu Lukaku.

Brighton head into the contest with encouraging fitness news of their own. Head coach Fabian Hurzeler has confirmed that both Joel Veltman and Charalampos Kostoulas, who missed the draw against Manchester City due to knocks, are expected to be fit. However, Yankuba Minteh remains a doubt with a dead-leg injury.

The Seagulls will still be without Mats Wieffer, Solly March, Adam Webster and Stefanos Tzimas, all sidelined by knee or toe problems. In addition, reported Manchester United target Carlos Baleba is unavailable due to Cameroon’s continued involvement at AFCON.

Hurzeler has also revealed plans to rotate his squad for the trip to Old Trafford, opening the door for appearances from Jason Steele, former United defender Lewis Dunk, and evergreen veteran James Milner, who continues to defy age at 40.