Manchester United's Final Day Lineup: What to Expect at Brighton

Manchester United travel to Brighton's Amex Stadium on Sunday for their final Premier League match of the season. With little left to play for in the table, Erik ten Hag may rotate his squad. Here is the latest team news and predicted starting XI.

Team News: Injuries and Suspensions

Ten Hag is without several key players. Lisandro Martinez (foot) and Raphael Varane (muscle) remain sidelined. Mason Mount (calf) is also out. Luke Shaw (hamstring) is doubtful but could feature. Antony (knock) is expected to be fit, while Rasmus Hojlund (muscle) may start after a substitute appearance last week.

Bruno Fernandes missed the last match with a minor issue but should return to captain the side. The defence will likely be makeshift again.

Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

  • Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
  • Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, Aaron Wan-Bissaka
  • Midfielders: Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro
  • Attacking midfield: Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Antony
  • Striker: Rasmus Hojlund

Maguire and Evans are the only fit senior centre-backs. Wan-Bissaka may start at left-back if Shaw is unavailable. Mainoo and Casemiro offer a mix of energy and experience in midfield. Hojlund leads the line, supported by Garnacho and Antony on the flanks.

Tactical Context: Brighton's Pressing Game

Brighton are known for their intense high press under Roberto De Zerbi. United's makeshift defence could struggle to play out from the back. Ten Hag may instruct his side to go long more often, bypassing Brighton's press. Set pieces could be key, with United scoring 14 set-piece goals this season.

Form and Statistics

United have won only two of their last five away league games. Brighton have lost just once at home since February. The Seagulls have also kept four clean sheets in their last seven matches. United's away form is a concern — they have conceded 32 goals on the road this campaign.

Fantasy Premier League Implications

Garnacho (£5.0m) is owned by 8% of FPL managers and has scored 45 points in the last six gameweeks. Bruno Fernandes (£8.3m) remains the highest-owned United asset at 22%. Brighton's Kaoru Mitoma (£6.4m) is a popular differential for the final day. United's defensive assets are risky given the injury crisis.

What's Next for United?

After this match, the club will turn to the summer transfer window. Speculation about a new centre-back and a striker is rife. Ten Hag's future also remains uncertain. The result at Brighton will shape the mood heading into pre-season.

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