Manchester United host Brighton and Hove Albion in their final game of the Premier League season.
This is Man Utd’s first game since Michael Carrick was officially announced as their permanent manager. And it’s a game they can play with freedom after securing a third-placed finish.
Man Utd predicted lineup vs Brighton
Man Utd (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Martinez, Yoro, Shaw; Mainoo, Ugarte; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Dorgu; Sesko.
Carrick certainly won’t want to lose this game, but it will be nice for Man Utd to play without any pressure. Champions League qualification is secured, but it’s a chance to end the season on a high.
It’s a huge game for Brighton, looking to sign off their season in style by qualifying for Europe.
Man Utd team news vs Brighton
Man Utd’s win over Nottingham Forest saw them say farewell to Brazilian midfielder Casemiro. Carrick confirmed that the game was Casemiro’s last for the club, so he won’t be travelling to Brighton.
It’s an opportunity for someone else to stake their claim in the middle of the park. Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro have held down the double pivot partnership since Carrick’s arrival. Carrick will likely be looking to make some changes, giving other players opportunities to end the season.
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Matthijs de Ligt remains out injured for the away side, heading into this game after he recently underwent surgery on a back problem.
Carrick failed to provide an update on Benjamin Sesko, who has been unavailable of late with a shin issue. It’s unclear whether he will be fit enough to return to the squad this week, but it feels unlikely that they’ll be taking any risks.
A new era at Old Trafford
It might not feel like a new era with Carrick in charge of Man Utd for the second half of the season. But they will be heading in a new direction in the summer. Carrick has now been appointed to the permanent role, meaning speculation can end over the managerial situation.
The Red Devils will also now be competing in the Champions League, which allows them to take a step closer to where they want to be after a few years of difficulties. They can now show up in a different market in the summer transfer window, building a squad capable of competing on all fronts.
It could be an incredibly busy summer for Man Utd, with the financials that come with playing in Europe being a massive benefit. There’s no doubt they also need multiple additions to deal with the hectic fixture schedule that comes with playing in Europe.
Carrick has done a phenomenal job so far this season. But testing himself in Europe will really allow us to see where he’s at in his career.