Man United knocked out of the FA Cup as 18-year-old suffers a catastrophic red card

United entered the tie on the back of three consecutive draws since their match against Wolves on the final day of 2025. The game also marked Darren Fletcher’s final outing as interim manager, with a new head coach expected to arrive this week ahead of the Manchester derby. United made few changes to their starting XI, with Harry Maguire returning to the lineup.

The hosts started brightly and created early chances through Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes, but both efforts were denied by the Brighton goalkeeper. Despite United’s early pressure, Brighton took the lead in the 11th minute. Danny Welbeck’s cross found Georginio Rutter, whose initial header was blocked by Lisandro Martínez, but the rebound fell kindly for Gruda, who finished to give the visitors the advantage.

Just two minutes later, United were fortunate not to fall further behind after a mistake from goalkeeper Senne Lammens allowed Welbeck to intercept, though Brighton failed to capitalise. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of the visitors.

United pushed for an equaliser after the break, but instead conceded again. A simple through ball from Gruda released Welbeck, who made no mistake in doubling Brighton’s lead.

The hosts mounted a late response, with Benjamin Šeško pulling a goal back in the 84th minute to give United hope. However, their comeback hopes were dealt a further blow in the closing stages when 18-year-old Shea Lacey was shown a straight red card after confronting the referee, having been on the pitch for just 28 minutes.

Reduced to 10 men, United were unable to find an equaliser and the match ended 2–1 in Brighton’s favour. Lacey was seen in tears as he left the pitch and later issued an apology on Instagram, writing: “I want to apologise to all of my teammates staff and the fans [sad pensive face emoji]. I let everybody down tonight I shouldn't let my emotions get the better of me I will do everything I can to make this right [praying emoji].”

The defeat marks a historic low point for Manchester United, who have now been eliminated at the first stage of both domestic cup competitions in the same season for the first time since 1981-82. United currently sit seventh in the Premier League with 32 points, but face a daunting run of fixtures, including clashes against Manchester City on 17 January 17 and Arsenal on 25 January.