Manchester United begin Erik ten Hag era with defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford

Erik ten Hag has failed to make an instant impact as Manchester United manager, with Brighton inflicting a 2-1 defeat on the Red Devils in the Dutchman’s first game in charge.

There was optimism at Old Trafford as Ten Hag fielded new signings Lisandro Martinez and Christian Eriksen from the start against the Seagulls, but it quickly turned sour and the team were being booed off at half-time.

Graham Potter’s Brighton were impressive in the opening stanza and made their good work pay as Pascal Gross scored twice on 30 and 39 minutes to stun Ten Hag and his new side.

Cristiano Ronaldo had been left on the bench after little action in pre-season and he was introduced soon in the second half, which did seem to galvanise the home team.

It was an unfortunate own goal from Alexis MacAllister on 68 minutes which gave Manchester United hope, but even with over 20 minutes to play, they did not create a great deal or really come close to grabbing an equaliser.

Donny van de Beek, Anthony Elanga and Alejandro Garnacho were all thrown on by the new United boss, but it was in vain as he began life at Old Trafford with defeat.

While Brighton hammered Manchester United 4-0 at the Amex in May, this is the first time ever they have beaten the Red Devils at Old Trafford, making it an historic win for Potter and his men.

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Things looked sticky from the off for Manchester United, with Leandro Trossard nearly scoring in the first minute after a Diogo Dalot mistake, while Fred dangerously gave the ball away in his own third early on as well.