Match Performance Review: Player Ratings and Analysis

**Senne Lammens (5/10):**
Lammens displayed a lack of authority during Gruda’s goal and nearly conceded a second shortly thereafter. While he cannot be held responsible for Welbeck’s powerful strike, it is hard to overlook how the overall struggles at the club have impacted his performance following a promising start.

**Diogo Dalot (4/10):**
Dalot squandered two significant opportunities and mismanaged a potentially fruitful offensive surge. His attacking forays left the defense vulnerable, forcing Mount to cover for him after Brighton took the lead.

**Leny Yoro (4/10):**
Yoro did not effectively justify his inclusion in the starting lineup over Heaven, as he struggled defensively, failing to mark Welbeck during either goal conceded.

**Lisandro Martinez (6/10):**
Martinez was defensively sound, contributing by creating two half-chances with his forward-thinking passing.

**Patrick Dorgu (4/10):**
Dorgu’s performance was problematic for both goals. He failed to mark Rutter on the first and did not react swiftly enough to prevent Gruda from assisting Welbeck. His offensive contribution was limited to a single commendable pass to Cunha.

**Manuel Ugarte (5/10):**
Ugarte did not disrupt Brighton’s play effectively when necessary, and his passing once again fell short of expectations.

**Kobbie Mainoo (7/10):**
Mainoo capitalized on his first start since August by creating three early chances, showcasing what the team has been missing due to Amorim’s refusal to integrate him into the system.

**Bruno Fernandes (6/10):**
Fernandes was pivotal in facilitating most of United’s positive plays and remained committed defensively toward the end.

**Mason Mount (5/10):**
Mount struggled to find success on the right flank and was substituted early in the match.

**Benjamin Sesko (6/10):**
Although Sesko’s finishing could have been sharper, he served as a crucial focal point for the team, with a late header providing a glimmer of hope.

**Matheus Cunha (5/10):**
Cunha once again failed to energize the attack, creating minimal threat and missing his only significant chance off-target.

**Joshua Zirkzee (5/10):**
Zirkzee attempted to facilitate play but the team needs him to take more initiative during this critical phase.

**Shea Lacey (5/10):**
Lacey played courageously but allowed his passion to lead to a needless dismissal at a crucial moment in the match.

**Harry Maguire (6/10):**
Maguire added an offensive element, assisting Sesko in scoring through his aerial presence.

**Casemiro (6/10):**
Casemiro provided essential strength upon his introduction, enhancing the team’s midfield presence.

**Darren Fletcher (4/10):**
Fletcher’s decision to drop Heaven and Casemiro proved to be a misstep, despite Mainoo’s notable performance. His subsequent removal of Mainoo raises questions about his future as head coach.