Manchester United suffered a dramatic Carabao Cup third-round exit on Wednesday after Brighton came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at Old Trafford.
The defeat ended a remarkable record. United had not previously lost at home after taking a two-goal lead since Tottenham beat them in September 1976, when Sir Alex Ferguson was still managing St Mirren.
The latest setback has deepened frustration among Manchester United supporters. Fans had already protested before Sunday’s derby defeat by Manchester City.
Many supporters left Old Trafford before the players completed their traditional post-match lap. Others stayed to boo the team and voice their anger.
Some fans confronted Carrick and his players near the tunnel, demanding an explanation for the performance.
Carrick Faces Growing Pressure
Carrick has now suffered three defeats since taking charge of Manchester United. The club have won only twice this season, against Ipswich and Champions League opponents Sabah FK.
That record has increased scrutiny around the manager.
Carrick said he did not feel under pressure despite the poor run.
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“I don’t feel under pressure,” he said. “What bothers me is winning games, having a good feeling around the place and a good feeling around the group.”
However, Wednesday’s performance offered few positives beyond Shea Lacey’s early goal.
The teenager scored in the eighth minute with a composed finish. He became the first teenager to score on his first Manchester United start since Marcus Rashford achieved the feat in February 2016.
Carrick made eight changes to his starting lineup, but the defensive reshuffle failed to improve United’s performance.
Diogo Dalot struggled for form, while Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven showed signs of their inexperience. United also lost control of midfield as Brighton grew into the match.
Marcus Rashford created danger but again failed to score or provide an assist. His best chance came after he broke through the Brighton defence, but goalkeeper Jason Steele made the save.
Brighton Complete Dramatic Comeback
Brighton gradually took control after falling two goals behind.
Manager Fabian Hurzeler said his team deserved the victory after dominating the later stages.
“The longer the game went, the more we had control,” Hurzeler said.
Carrick did not challenge that assessment.
Brighton’s comeback turned what had looked like a comfortable United victory into another painful night for the home supporters.
The result also overshadowed Lacey’s impressive first senior start.
Carrick said he felt particularly disappointed for the academy graduate, whose breakthrough moment became lost in the aftermath of the defeat.
“It’s a shame that Shea’s moment… gets a bit lost unfortunately,” Carrick said.
He added that Lacey would eventually appreciate the significance of his achievement once the disappointment had settled.
Focus on Young Players
Carrick also addressed the decision surrounding 15-year-old JJ Gabriel.
The highly rated academy player had been expected to make his senior debut, but the manager introduced experienced players during the closing stages as United attempted to protect their lead.
Carrick said the club had to consider Gabriel’s welfare and exposure because of his age.
“He’s a young boy, he’s 15,” Carrick said. “We’ve got to be really conscious of that in this situation.”
United’s immediate priority now shifts to Sunday’s Premier League match against Fulham.
The game will come just before the international break and could carry added significance after another damaging result.
Former England midfielder Jamie Redknapp said the upcoming fixture could become an important test for Carrick.
“Right now, they’re miles off it,” Redknapp said on Sky Sports.
He argued that United’s problems extend beyond the manager and pointed to concerns over the squad’s quality and previous managerial struggles.
For Manchester United, the focus is now firmly on Fulham and stopping the slide before the international break.
