Manchester United vs Brighton Preview: Predicted First XI and 5 points to look forward to

#2 Can the United midfield dominate proceedings?

Manchester United v Leicester City - Premier League

Manchester United tried all sorts of midfield combinations in the preseason, but Pereira was the standout performer there. Once Fred joined his fellow Brazilian for the last couple of games, they immediately looked comfortable with each other. On Friday against Leicester, Paul Pogba played with the two of them for the first time and immediately struck a partnership. All three defended and attacked in unison; even though Pereira was stationed deeper in the midfield, he was not a typical defensive midfielder. Fred and Pereira did all the pressing and Pogba himself was involved in two very good clearances. On the other hand, having the two Brazilians alongside him seemed to have freed the Frenchman, who looked lively, spread the ball with a touch of class and looked every bit his brilliant self. He even had two shots, and both of them were on target.

Even though the United midfield got the better of their Leicester City counterparts, there were instances in the game where they were caught out. Mourinho will look to settle these minor issues – it was just the first game of the season – and the United midfield will look to dominate again. Brighton will be a different proposition, they will defend deep and look to hit in the counter and in set pieces. The midfield will have to work out a way through the crowd near the box and this will be a big test for Fred, Pogba and especially Pereira from the deep. The game will be especially important for Pogba, who can carry forward his brilliant form from the summer and go on to stamp his authority in his United team.