Manchester United were defeated 2-1 by Brighton in their opening game of the new season, raising tensions and sparking a fan brawl.
Manchester United were defeated by Brighton in their first Premier League match of the season, as fans battled in the stands.
United fans were hoping for the start of a new era under Erik ten Hag, but they suffered their first ever home defeat against the Seagulls, who won 2-1 at Old Trafford.
Brighton took a dominating lead in the first half thanks to two goals from Pascal Gross, and while an Alex Mac Allister own goal halved the margin after the break, Ten Hag’s team could not complete the comeback.
As a result, tensions in the stands rose, and a fight looked to break out in one section of the Old Trafford crowd.
A man appears to have his hand around the throat of another spectator in one shot.
Following that, fans from the section below became engaged as others attempted to defuse the situation, while many merely looked on in fear.
Ten Hag urged supporters to be the 12th man against Brighton before the game.
‘If we provide dedication, I think they [the fans] will like it and bring the fight back,’ remarked the Dutchman. ‘I believe the stadium is supposed to bring fight and cooperation.’
Some of those in attendance at Old Trafford appear to have taken that call to action a little too seriously.