Manchester United vs Brighton – Predicted lineup and team news

Manchester United are set to face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, with the goal of regaining momentum after a controversial derby defeat to Manchester City. A win would provide United with a chance to advance to the fourth round, offering them a rare opportunity for silverware in the competition. After a poor start to the season, a positive result against Brighton could help alleviate pressure on the head coach.

However, United will be without four key players due to injury: Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Amad Diallo, Tom Heaton, and Carlos Baleba. Luke Shaw, who missed Sunday's derby, remains a fitness doubt and will be assessed closer to kickoff. If Shaw does not play, Patrick Dorgu might continue at left-back or be pushed forward to join Noussair Mazraoui in a four-man defense setup.

Andrey Santos is eager for a return to the team, while Benjamin Sesko is expected to make his second start of the campaign in attack, preferably ahead of Matheus Cunha, who has been struggling to make an impact as a false nine.

The match kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 BST on Wednesday, 16 September 2026. Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, and ITV1 in the UK.