Manchester United crashed out of yet another cup competition at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion. This time, it was a 3-2 loss at Old Trafford in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Not many fans inside Old Trafford could have predicted such a result, considering the way the home side started the encounter.
The Red Devils raced to a two-goal lead within the opening 10 minutes through goals from Shea Lacey and Mason Mount.
But it was almost one-way traffic after that, with Fabian Hurzeler displaying tactical acumen far beyond what Michael Carrick has shown so far this season.
Youri Tielemans did not hold back
The team’s weak mentality and tendency to drop deeper and deeper after scoring were on display yet again, as the Seagulls took full advantage as key players underperformed yet again.
Youri Tielemans, who was named captain on the night, admitted that the 20-time English league champions’ decision to sit back contributed to the capitulation.
“I thought we started so well. We started so positively, and then we conceded the goal before half-time. We lost our stride a little bit and were too much on the back foot.
“Then we conceded two goals in the second half and gave away that lead, which shouldn’t happen. So, yeah, it’s frustrating and disappointing,” the Belgian told MUTV.
Familiar failings
The former Aston Villa ace explained that United started exactly as planned, combining possession play with good pressing, which led to both goals.
However, it has become a trademark to see the hosts step off the gas, as the difference in fitness levels also reared its ugly head.
“No, honestly, we started so well. Like I said, we were on the front foot, winning duels, keeping the ball in their half and creating chances.
“I thought we punished them when they lost the ball a couple of times at the back, and we punished them. That’s what we wanted from the game, and we tried to push on. Unfortunately, we couldn’t keep the pace up and, yeah, we got done.”
Youri Tielemans’ message to teammates
Three disappointing results have knocked the wind out of United’s sails, but Youri Tielemans urged his teammates to regroup as quickly as possible to stop the rut.
“Regroup. I must say, we need to be strong together as a team. We have a massive game on Sunday, a Premier League game, where we need to get back into it, react and finish positively before the break. Then, after the break, we need to go at it 100%.”
He was also asked about his feelings on captaining United so early into his Old Trafford stint, and naturally, the midfield maestro was very proud of the achievement.
“Yeah, definitely. A very proud moment. But, yeah, you don’t get the win in the end, so you’re so disappointed about it. But, yeah, definitely a proud moment.”
Hopefully, United can head into the international break with a win on Sunday. Or else, INEOS might have to consider changes very soon.
Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
