FA Cup: Man Utd vs Brighton preview, prediction, team news and head-to-head

This fixture marks the beginning of the journey in the most prestigious domestic cup for both sides, with the hosts looking to find stability amidst a managerial change and the visitors aiming to replicate their strong recent form at the Theatre of Dreams.

Manchester United come into this fixture on the back of a chaotic 2-2 draw away at Burnley on Wednesday night, a result that served as the first match under interim head coach Darren Fletcher. 

The Red Devils appear to be in a state of transition following the sacking of Ruben Amorim on Monday, but the performance at Turf Moor showed glimpses of attacking promise, particularly with Benjamin Sesko netting twice. 

However, defensive lapses continue to haunt the side, and Fletcher will be eager to shore up the backline to ensure they do not suffer an early exit from a competition they have won fourteen times.

Brighton, meanwhile, saw their momentum continue with a disciplined 1-1 draw against Manchester City in midweek. Fabian Hurzeler has maintained the Seagulls' reputation as a courageous side that is capable of dominating possession against the league’s elite. 

The manager mentioned that the mental capacity of his team will be tested in the knockout format, especially at a ground where they have enjoyed significant success in recent years. Brighton will be confident of causing another upset against a United side that is currently finding its feet under temporary leadership. 

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Brighton have had the upper hand in recent meetings, winning three of the last five encounters, with Manchester United managing only two wins.

The Seagulls recorded a memorable 3-1 victory at Old Trafford last season, but the return leg ended in a 4-2 win for the Red Devils. 

Manchester United have only a minor concern heading into the game, with Matthijs de Ligt sidelined through injury. 

His absence slightly reduces depth in central defence, but the interim manager still has sufficient cover and is unlikely to make major tactical adjustments as a result.

Brighton & Hove Albion, meanwhile, are dealing with a longer injury list. Winger Yankuba Minteh and defender Adam Webster are both unavailable, while midfield options are limited with Mats Wieffer also sidelined. 

Long-term absentees Solly March and Stefanos Tzimas remain out as they continue their recovery, which could force the manager to rely on younger players and adapt his attacking rotations.

Manchester United (3-4-2-1): Bayindir– Dalot, Maguire, Yoro– Shaw, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dorgu – Mount, Fernandes – Zirkzee

Brighton & Hove Albion (4-2-3-1): Steele– Hinshelwood, Coppola, Gruda, De Cuyper – Gross, Milner– Kadioglu, Gomez, Mitoma – Welbeck

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With Manchester United still adjusting to the instructions of Darren Fletcher and Brighton possessing a ferocious attacking threat, this game indicates that goals are likely at both ends.