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