BBC pundit tips Manchester United to lose to Brighton this weekend and explains why

Manchester United return to the Premier League next weekend and will be looking to continue their winning streak at home.

After two wins and two defeats in the league this season, the only consolation is that both wins came at Old Trafford. Home advantage could prove crucial when Manchester United face Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend.

United are unbeaten in 31 consecutive games in all competitions at Old Trafford. The problem is that in Erik ten Hag’s first game, Brighton were the last away team to win at Old Trafford.

Brighton tipped to beat Man Utd

Surely Brighton couldn’t do it again, and win at Old Trafford for a second successive season?

Well, it can’t be ruled out considering their recent impressive form which saw them demolish Newcastle 3-1.

BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton is tipping a victory for the Seagulls, calling a dramatic 3-2 victory for Roberto De Zerbi’s side.

He explains that United’s need to attack Brighton could seriously backfire.

Sutton told BBC Sport: “Maybe this is the game where United find their feet – we know they can counter-attack really well, and the way Brighton play might suit them. But I just don’t see it.

“Surely with United being at home, they have to go after Brighton, rather than sitting back and trying to beat them on the break that way?

“If United play the way I am expecting them to, that would play into Brighton’s hands. Evan Ferguson and Danny Welbeck are both injury doubts for Brighton but I think we will see an open game with plenty of goals, and I have a feeling the Seagulls will edge it.”

Brighton strong record v Manchester United

Worryingly, Manchester United have not won more than 90 minutes against Brighton in their last 4 matches in all competitions.

Including a humiliating 0-4 away loss at the end of the 2021/22 season, before Brighton won 2-1 at Old Trafford on the opening day of last season.

United beat Brighton on penalties in April after a 0-0 draw after extra time but it was difficult to convince.

And then there was the stoppage-time defeat in the league at the end of last season, De Zerbi’s first win over United.

Looks like United owe Brighton a game, these players need to use that as motivation.It won’t be easy.