Man United Starting XI vs Brighton: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Manchester United XI Under Review Ahead of Brighton Visit

Manchester United return to Old Trafford this evening with optimism building after a rare and spirited victory at Anfield. Attention now turns to the Premier League clash with Brighton, and the Manchester United XI is expected to be influenced by late fitness tests and tactical considerations. The contest carries significance for Ruben Amorim, who continues shaping his side with a clearer identity as autumn fixtures intensify.

Harry Maguire and Mason Mount delivered decisive contributions against Liverpool. Maguire produced a dramatic late winner and Mount delivered one of his most influential displays in a United shirt, helping secure a first victory at Anfield in nine years. This time, however, both are battling knocks, and their absence would alter United’s balance on the pitch.

Key Fitness Decisions and Amorim’s Assessment

Confirmation of team selection may come late, with Amorim addressing concerns on Friday. His words suggested cautious optimism rather than alarm.

“The squad is fine,” United head coach Ruben Amorim said on Friday. “We have some doubts, we had some issues in the week with Harry Maguire and Mason Mount. Knocks, nothing serious and we will see tomorrow.

“Licha [Martinez] is out. He trained really well. He was on the next pitch and I was watching.

“He’s training really well, the knee is looking well but I don’t want to say a specific week [for his return] and then it depends on Licha, whether he wins the spot.”

Photo IMAGO

The return of Lisandro Martinez edges closer, and while he remains unavailable for tonight’s match, the Argentine’s progress is timely. His blend of leadership, composure and defensive intelligence would be invaluable as fixtures begin to stack up.

Should Maguire fail to be passed fit, Leny Yoro is primed to step into United’s back three. It would place the young defender alongside Matthijs de Ligt and Luke Shaw, who continue to form a reliable unit when well supported by disciplined wing-backs and a structured midfield.

Tactical Options and Potential Adjustments

If Mount is unavailable, Amorim has several options to maintain fluency. Benjamin Sesko is in contention to return to the forward line, which could see Matheus Cunha dropping into a more withdrawn role. Such a tweak would retain mobility in the final third, and it would also allow United to press Brighton’s back line with energy and intent.

Alternatively, Amad Diallo may be pushed into a more advanced position to support the attack. Wing-back roles may see rotation. Noussair Mazraoui or Patrick Dorgu are both candidates to enter the starting XI if Diogo Dalot is rested. Both provide attacking thrust and tactical flexibility out wide, particularly with Brighton known for stretching opponents across the pitch.

Photo: IMAGO

United’s midfield has settled well in recent weeks, but Amorim may decide to refresh the core. Manuel Ugarte provides a compelling option for ball retention and defensive discipline if rotation is considered. Kobbie Mainoo remains on the periphery of regular starts, yet his technical quality and intelligence continue to push him closer to more consistent minutes.

Bruno Fernandes remains a pivotal figure in this Manchester United XI. His ability to play in one of the two supporting roles behind the striker makes him a secure starter. His leadership and creative orchestration will be crucial against a Brighton side that often dominates possession.

Predicted Manchester United XI vs Brighton

Senne Lammens has started confidently in goal since replacing Altay Bayindir. His debut performance against Sunderland drew admiration and comparisons to Peter Schmeichel, praise he handled with calm assurance. His command of the area has impressed coaches and supporters alike.

Predicted Manchester United XI (3-4-2-1):Lammens, De Ligt, Yoro, Shaw, Amad, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot, Mbeumo, Cunha, Sesko

Doubts: Maguire, Mount

Injured: Martinez

Kick off: 5.30pm BST, Saturday 25 October 2025

Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester

How to Watch: Sky Sports

Tonight offers United another opportunity to demonstrate progress under Amorim. With selection questions hanging over key figures, the Manchester United XI that emerges could reflect both tactical evolution and squad depth.