United’s realistic chance is finishing in the top six positions and securing an Europa League qualification for the next campaign.
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Manchester United have nothing but pride to play for in their final two games of the season. Sitting sixth in the Premier League table, United have 58 points from 36 games. Even if they win their last two matches against Brighton and Crystal Palace, a top-four finish is highly unlikely. At best, Ralf Rangnick’s side can reach up to 64 points this campaign. Fourth-placed Arsenal are already on 63 points, while fifth-placed Tottenham Hostpur are on 61 points. Both sides have played two games lesser than Manchester United in the league.
United’s realistic chance is finishing in the top six positions and securing an Europa League qualification for the next campaign. Their rivals for that spot is seventh-placed West Ham United, who have 52 points from 35 games. An Europa League spot might not excite the fans, however, those additional midweek matches might hand Erik ten Hag an opportunity to use his full squad depth and give an opportunity to the fringe players next season. This could keep the dressing room content and also the competition might provide a chance for ten Hag to end Manchester United’s silverware drought. Besides, an Europa League triumph can secure direct qualification to the Champions League.
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On the other hand, Brighton will be optimistic following victories over Wolves, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur recently. They would like to maintain that form by securing a memorable result against Manchester United on Saturday. However, home form has been worrying for Brighton recently. They are still winless at the Amex in 2022 in the Premier League. Their last home success was a Boxing Day victory over Brentford. Meanwhile, United have been poor on the road, having lost their last four Premier League matches away from home.
Manchester United could have a welcome boost on the injury front, with the possible return of skipper Harry Maguire and right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka. They were both pictured in training on Wednesday. It is not clear though whether they will start since the previous pairing of Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof did well against Brentford in the last match. Left-back Luke Shaw and winger Jadon Sancho will be out of the clash. In midfield, Fred could push for a starting role.
On the other hand, Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu could miss the clash for the home side after being forced off during their 3-0 win at Wolves. Meanwhile, full-back Tariq Lamptey might be in line to start for the hosts on Saturday. He was absent from their match against Southampton but made an appearance from the bench at Molineux last time out. One thing is for sure though Jakub Moder will not be a part of the match after being ruled out for the rest of the season.
Brighton possible line-up: Sanchez, Lamptey, Veltman, Dunk, Cucurella, Bissouma, Caicedo, Trossard, Gross, Mac Allister, Welbeck
Manchester United possible line-up: De Gea, Dalot, Varane, Lindelof, Telles, Fred, McTominay, Elanga, Fernandes, Rashford, Ronaldo
The high-octane Premier League battle between Brighton and Manchester United will take place at Amex and it will kick off at 10 pm IST on Saturday, May 7. The late kick-off on Saturday night will be United’s last before match of the season.
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The match will be live streamed on the Hotstar app and website. Meanwhile, football fans in India can also enjoy the action on TV networks, as the competition is telecast live on the Star Sports network.
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