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Manchester United head to the south coast with little left to decide in the Premier League standings, yet there is a feeling that this final outing against Brighton could provide a preview of the club’s next phase. While the noise around Old Trafford has been constant this season, Sunday offers several players a chance to make a lasting impression before the summer overhaul begins.

Michael Carrick has confirmed that Benjamin Sesko remains doubtful after aggravating a shin problem during the recent victory over Liverpool. The Slovenian forward was substituted at half-time after an awkward collision with the advertising boards and has since missed two successive games.

Despite having little on the line, Manchester United fans will still expect a strong performance. Carrick has hinted at possible rotation, though the available talent remains sufficient to pose Brighton a serious test at the Amex Stadium.

One of the key talking points ahead of this match is Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese playmaker has been the creative heartbeat of Manchester United throughout the campaign and now stands on the verge of another personal milestone.

Fernandes is chasing what would be his 21st Premier League assist of the season – an outstanding achievement in a side that has often struggled for consistency. His influence is undeniable; whether drifting between lines or dictating play from deeper areas, Fernandes continues to shape United’s attacking identity.

Carrick appears intent on giving him the stage to reach that target. The expectation is that Fernandes will once again occupy the No. 10 position, orchestrating play just behind the main striker.

If Sesko is unable to prove his fitness, Bryan Mbeumo is expected to lead the attack. That would allow Patrick Dorgu to return to the wing after recovering from the hamstring injury that kept him out since January.

Carrick may also make notable adjustments in defence as he manages player workloads and assesses his options ahead of the summer transfer market.

Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined following back surgery, while Casemiro has already played his last game for the club and will not feature again. The Brazilian’s absence opens the door for Manuel Ugarte to partner Kobbie Mainoo in central midfield.

In the heart of defence, young centre-back Ayden Heaven could be given another chance to impress. The academy graduate is highly rated internally and might replace Harry Maguire as United continue to evaluate their emerging talents.

Noussair Mazraoui is also expected to start at full-back, while Luke Shaw’s experience could be crucial in dealing with Brighton’s fluid attacking movement.

Carrick has also suggested that several academy players might be involved from the bench, especially after Manchester United’s Under-18 side lifted the FA Youth Cup earlier this month. There is growing optimism that youth development will take on greater importance at Old Trafford in the near future.

Manchester United’s predicted lineup against Brighton is anticipated to be: Bayindir; Shaw, Heaven, Martinez, Mazraoui; Mainoo, Ugarte; Dorgu, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo.

There is also curiosity around Altay Bayindir possibly starting in goal. The Turkish goalkeeper could be handed a final appearance before a likely summer departure. Having spent most of the season as a backup, Bayindir has remained professional and patient throughout his tenure at the club.

Further up the pitch, Cunha’s energy and pressing ability should complement Fernandes’ creativity, while Mainoo and Ugarte bring balance and control to midfield. Even during a transitional period, there are enough promising elements in this Manchester United side to hint at a stronger foundation for the future.

Brighton, under Roberto De Zerbi, remain one of the most organised and technically assured teams in the league. His tactical influence continues to define their approach, ensuring that this fixture will not be straightforward despite its low stakes.

Heading into the final day, Manchester United’s injury situation is relatively simple. Sesko remains doubtful with his shin injury, De Ligt is still recovering from back surgery, and Casemiro will not feature following confirmation of his impending exit from the club.

For Carrick, the key will be finding the right balance between competitiveness and experimentation. While the match itself may not hold major implications, supporters will be watching closely for signs of progress and what lies ahead for the team.

Even on a quiet May afternoon by the sea, the weight of the Manchester United shirt still carries its own pressure. That reality never truly changes.