Manchester United crashed out of the FA Cup in the third round after a disappointing performance against Brighton.
For the remainder of the 2025/26 season, Manchester United only have Premier League football to look forward to.
The Red Devils were knocked out of the League Cup by Grimsby Town earlier in the season and Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton means United also dropped out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle.
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It was Darren Fletcher’s final game as interim head coach, with Michael Carrick expected to be appointed imminently for the remainder of the season.
Carrick’s task will be to qualify for the Champions League and end what has been a disappointing season on a high.
Michael Carrick speaks at Manchester United Press Conference
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Gary Lineker criticises Man United display vs Brighton
United were far from their best against Brighton, and it left a sour mood around Old Trafford after the full-time whistle.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker assessed United’s performance and picked out two flaws.
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“The squad depth is not really there. But there was no lack of effort there, you could see that,” Lineker said.
“Actually, in the first half, they didn’t play too badly. They had a couple of opportunities. It was their final ball really that let them down. They missed one or two opportunities.
“Also the crossing just wasn’t quite right.”
Man United unlikely to make signings in January
Lineker clearly believes United need better strength in depth and quality in the final third, but it seems Carrick will have to cope without any winter signings.
According to reports, United will not make signings in January after investing heavily in the summer.
There is a belief among the club hierarchy that players are overpriced in the winter market, so Ineos are willing to wait until the summer to make any new signings.
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By then, Carrick will be out the door and United will make a long-term managerial appointment.
Carrick will have to make do with his current squad depth. Hopefully Lineker’s concerns about crossing and finishing in the final third will be partially fixed by the return of Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo.
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