Manchester United faced a shocking 3-2 defeat against Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round, marking the first time since 1976 that they lost at Old Trafford after taking a 2-0 lead. This loss came after a week filled with discontent from fans, who expressed their frustrations through boos and protests, especially following a prior loss to Manchester City.

Despite the outcry, manager Michael Carrick stated he does not feel pressured by recent results. "I don't feel under pressure... What bothers me is winning games," he said, emphasizing the need for a positive atmosphere within the team. However, the team’s performance raised concerns, with Manchester United having only won twice this season while suffering three losses.

Shea Lacey, who scored on his senior debut, stood out as a bright spot, becoming the first teenager to score on his first start since Marcus Rashford in February 2016. Carrick made eight changes to the lineup, but the defensive performance faltered, with players like Diogo Dalot underperforming.

Brighton’s manager Fabian Hurzeler noted his team's control over the game, stating, "I thought we deserved to win," a sentiment Carrick did not dispute. The defeat left fans and players alike disheartened, as the team exited the cup competition.

With an upcoming match against Fulham, Carrick acknowledged the necessity for a victory to stabilize the club's morale. Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp remarked on the team's struggles, suggesting that without the right players, even a good manager would face challenges, and highlighted the importance of the next game for Carrick's tenure.