Manchester United’s recent slip-up against Brighton in the Premier League has ignited a firestorm of debate, with former midfield maestro Owen Hargreaves casting a critical eye on manager Erik ten Hag’s tactical decisions.
The Red Devils, who had previously enjoyed a flawless start to the season, suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of a resolute Brighton side on Saturday. Despite dominating much of the play and having two goals controversially disallowed by VAR, United’s defensive lapses proved to be their undoing.
READ MORE: Ten Hag blames dismal Man Utd defending for Brighton defeat
Hargreaves, known for his no-holds-barred analysis, singled out ten Hag’s substitutions as the turning point of the match. The decision to withdraw Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes, two key figures in United’s midfield, drew sharp criticism from the former England international.
“I think they lost it on the subs,” Hargreaves, a former Manchester United and England player, declared in an interview with Premier League Productions, referencing the visible frustration on Fernandes’ face as he was replaced. “Taking off Maguire also disrupted the team’s shape and balance.”
In stark contrast, Hargreaves heaped praise on Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, whose inspired substitutions breathed new life into his side and ultimately secured the victory. The Seagulls’ tactical acumen and ability to capitalize on United’s errors highlighted the gulf in managerial expertise between the two teams.
Goals:
* Brighton: Danny Welbeck (29′), João Pedro (90+3′)
* Manchester United: Amad Diallo (68′)
Upcoming Fixtures:
* Manchester United: Against Liverpool at Anfield
* Brighton: Against Everton at Goodison Park
As United prepare to face their arch-rivals Liverpool in the upcoming weekend, ten Hag will be under immense pressure to rectify the tactical blunders that cost his side the Brighton match. The spotlight will be firmly on the Dutch manager as he seeks to restore United’s winning momentum and silence the growing chorus of discontent.
