Manchester United suffer humiliating League Cup exit against Brighton

Manchester United crashed out of the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday, losing at home to Brighton in a result that left supporters furious. United had led in the match but collapsed in the closing stages, conceding late to fall to defeat. Many fans left before the final whistle, while others voiced their frustration directly at the players and manager as they walked off.

The one bright spot was teenager Shea Lacey, who scored in the eighth minute on his first senior start — becoming the first teenager to score on a United debut start since Marcus Rashford in 2016. Manager Michael Carrick had made eight changes to his lineup, but the reshuffled defence, featuring inexperienced young players, struggled throughout, and the midfield was overrun by Brighton.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler said his side grew into control as the game progressed and felt they deserved the win — an assessment Carrick did not contest.

Carrick maintained that he does not feel under pressure, saying external criticism does not bother him and that his focus is on the team playing well and moving in the right direction. He also addressed the case of 15-year-old academy player JJ Gabriel, stressing the club's responsibility to protect young players' welfare and manage their exposure carefully.

United have won just twice this season while suffering three defeats — already more losses than Carrick experienced in his first 17 matches after replacing Ruben Amorim in January. Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp expressed doubt that the team can turn things around, arguing the squad currently lacks the quality needed. United's next match is away at Fulham on Sunday, before the international break.