7M Exclusive - Manchester United vs Brighton & Hove Albion Preview

Posted Sunday, August 07, 2022 by 7M Sport

The Red Devils will face the biggest dark horse Brighton & Hove Albion in the opening game at Old Trafford. Can new manager Erik ten Hag make a good start in the Premier League?

Brighton was the biggest "dark horse" in the Premier League last season, ranking 9th with 51 points. Under the management of Graham Potter, Brighton got 15 draws in 38 games, tied with Southampton for the top draw record in the EPL.

Brighton's biggest problem last season was their powerless attacking end. Among the top 9 teams, Brighton's 42 goals were the fewest, 15 less than Manchester United, who scored the 2nd fewest goals.

Last season, Manchester United welcomed a new manager, Erik ten Hag. However, Manchester United, which can only participate in the UEFA Europa League, did not push their transfers smoothly. For example, De Jong and Brazilian winger Anthony, both of whom Erik ten Hag had high hopes for, were not able to join. And Cristiano Ronaldo's stay is also left "even more uncertain".

Erik ten Hag really needs Cristiano Ronaldo? The real answer may be revealed soon after the start of the EPL.

The first match against the big black horse should be a more suitable opponent for Erik ten Hag, which will help him get familiar with the difficulty of the EPL faster.

All in all, Brighton shall be expected to keep unbeaten in this trip.