Manchester United could not escape more unwanted history despite a morale-boosting final-day victory ahead of Saturday’s FA Cup final. While Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton tenure ended in defeat, Newcastle’s convincing win at Brentford means United recorded their lowest-ever Premier League finish in eighth. Not only that but it is the first time in Premier League history that United have finished a campaign with a negative goal difference – and that has not happened at Old Trafford since the 1989-90 campaign.
This season they ended on -1. But in a strange twist, if United win the FA Cup, they will secure a place in the Europa League – and knock Newcastle out of Europe in the process. There have been over 50 separate cases of injuries and illness, but that serves as no excuse for some of the performances his side have served up this season.
Even David Moyes ’ United side that finished seventh in 2014 ended the campaign with a goal difference of 21. It could all prove to be terminal for manager Erik ten Hag, regardless of what happens at Wembley against Manchester City . Ultimately, he has failed to stem the flow of the bleeding as the Red Devils continue to invite pressure from their opponents, conceding countless shots upon their goal.
It's been the theme of their season and fittingly, was on display once last time at the Amex before second-half goals from Diogo Dalot and Rasmus Hojlund made it two wins on the spin. Brighton appeared determined to give departing boss.