Manchester United 1-2 Brighton: Player Ratings From Ten Hag’s First Premier League Defeat
Manchester United started their Premier League campaign with a frustrating defeat at Old Trafford courtesy of a brace from Pascal Gross.
The Red Devils were sloppy throughout the game, losing possession multiple times in their own-half. A Brighton own goal in the 68th minute ensured an interesting end to the game but wasn’t enough for Erik ten Hag to avoid a defeat on his first Premier League outing.
David de Gea – 6
Very clumsy in possession and could’ve done more to prevent the visitor’s second goal.
Diogo Dalot – 5
Aggressive in closing down his man but left plenty of space behind for Brighton to exploit. Involved in United’s goal.
Harry Maguire – 6
Moved the ball forward very well but lacked understanding with his new partner in defence.
Lisandro Martinez – 6
Started well, but lost his cool after conceding the first goal.
Luke Shaw – 4
Didn’t look up for it today. Poor tracking for Brighton’s opener.
Scott McTominay – 2
Lacked ideas with the ball and composure without it. Made Ten Hag’s case for Frenkie de Jong easier.
Fred – 4
Struggled in the deeper role.
Bruno Fernandes – 5
Got early chance to put United ahead but couldn’t finish. Very good corner to force United’s goal.
Jadon Sancho – 5
Disappointing performance after an encouraging pre-season.
Marcus Rashford – 4
Failed to convert Cristiano Ronaldo’s pass and never really managed to unsettle Brighton’s defence.
Christian Eriksen – 7
Showed Fred how to distribute from deep in the second-half, but ineffective as a false 9 in the first.
Substitutes
Cristiano Ronaldo – 5
Found Rashford in a good position with a fine pass but was ruled offside. That was his only significant contribution off the bench.
Donny van de Beek – 5
Calm in possession but couldn’t find any decisive pass.
Tyrell Malacia – N/A
Alejandro Garnacho – N/A
Anthony Elanga – N/A