Despite the Red Devils’ 2-0 victory, they concluded a disappointing season in the league and finished eighth in the standings.

Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Brighton at the Amex was a shining conclusion to Manchester United’s Premier League campaign, thanks to goals from Diogo Dalot and Rasmus Hojlund. The Red Devils may consider themselves somewhat fortuitous, given that Erik ten Hag’s squad had appeared hopeless for extended periods. At moments, the visitors were dominated by their hosts and were on the verge of extinction had Brighton not scored prior to Dalot’s excellent Casemiro pass and subsequent goal.

Ten Hag’s squad struggled to advance beyond their half in the first forty-five minutes due to Brighton’s effective pressure and stifling of their passing options. In the second half, United appeared to be the more formidable opponent, but the Seagulls soon regained their composure and were denied a goal when Casemiro blocked a shot on the line. The hosts, who were threatening and dominant, ought to have been flying against the Red Devils but foul up too many opportunities with blocks or poor finishing.

United received a much-needed boost with the introduction of Hojlund at the hour mark; he competed for the ball and provided the Red Devils with a target up front. He not only contributed marginally to the opening goal, but also finished a strong charge and tucked into the net to extend the lead to two.

In anticipation of the FA Cup final against reigning English champions Manchester City, Red Devils supporters will be concerned about their team’s form as they attempt to pull off a monumental upset and claim the championship.

GOAL evaluates United’s Amex performers…

Andre Onana

Denied Valentin Barco with a stop at his near post and while his goal led a charmed life at times, Onana did not have to make many noteworthy stops. 6

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Dismal defending invited Barco inside to have the first attempt at goal. Continues to hit a force field whenever he approaches the final third. 5

Casemiro

Defended stoutly alongside another partner in Lisandro Martinez and did brilliantly to clear off the line from Joao Pedro and his pass led to Diogo Dalot’s goal. 7

Lisandro Martinez

A decent return to the starting line-up and completed 90 minutes for the first time since February. His withdrawal on 59 minutes was planned. 6

Diogo Dalot

Fortunate not to be booked for cynically halting Simon Adingra. Often stepped into midfield and dared as far forward as the frontline to score. 7

Kobbie Mainoo

Recovered from an early injury scare but struggled to have an impact against Brighton’s aesthetes. One of the players who came off for a rest. 5

Sofyan Amrabat

His impressive run came to an abrupt halt. Correctly booked and slow on and off the ball. His passing was often wayward. 5

Amad

Involved in some decent interplay and showed admirable intent. Skied a shot when he could have done better after cutting inside. 6

Scott McTominay

Wasted United’s best chance of the first half with a heavy touch and heavier shot. Had a good opportunity from close range just past the hour. 5

Alejandro Garnacho

United’s most threatening forward. Had a couple of good first-half openings and had Brighton defenders on the back foot. 6

Bruno Fernandes

Started as the false nine again and ended a torrid first half by being booked. Replaced on the hour to save him for Wembley. 4

Subs

Jonny Evans

Came on in a planned change. 6

Rasmus Hojlund

Gave United a focal point and scored really well. 8

Raphael Varane

Twenty-odd minutes ahead of a possible cup final start. 6

Marcus Rashford

Got more minutes ahead of a probable bench role at Wembley. 5

Christian Eriksen

Emerged alongside Rashford. 5

Manager

Issued a signal of intent by only making one change but the false nine tactic failed. Effectively gave up on the game as a serious contest in the second half. 6