United appeared to be cruising after racing into a two-goal lead, with Shea Lacey opening the scoring before Mason Mount added a second to put the hosts firmly in control, but just when it looked like United were heading towards a much-needed victory, everything fell apart.
Brighton pulled one back before half-time, giving the visitors hope heading into the second half. United then struggled to regain control, and Brighton took full advantage.Pascal Groß levelled the score before Maxim De Cuyper completed the comeback, leaving Old Trafford stunned and United facing another damaging result.
For United, the defeat is particularly painful given the position they were in. A two-goal advantage at home had been transformed into another night of disappointment, with the team unable to find a response once Brighton shifted the momentum.
The result also adds to growing concerns over United’s consistency and their ability to close out matches when they have the advantage.
What looked like a comfortable evening quickly became another chapter in a frustrating season, with supporters once again left wondering when the club will finally find stability.
With the Carabao Cup campaign now over, Manchester United must quickly turn their attention back to the Premier League. But after another defeat and another performance that slipped away from them, the pressure surrounding the club continues to grow.
For the Red Devils, the message is simple: the fightback needs to start now.