Manchester United’s 2-0 win over Brighton was not enough to prevent their worst ever Premier League finish.
Diogo Dalot and Rasmus Hojlund scored second-half goals to give Erik Ten Hag’s side the three points, but Newcastle’s victory at Brentford means the Red Devils finish in eight place, their lowest league finish since 1989/90, and miss out of European qualification from their league standing.
Brighton dominated for large periods of the game in Roberto De Zerbi’s farewell fixture, and should have found themselves ahead at the break on a sunny day at the Amex Stadium.
Adam Webster spurned two promising headed chances, before Joao Pedro struck wide of Andre Onana’s left post from inside the box.
The Seagulls started the second-half in the ascendancy, and Pedro, who ended the season as Brighton’s top scorer with 20 goals, almost gave the hosts a deserved lead, before Casemiro hooked his shot off the line.
Dalot then gave Manchester United the lead in the 73rd minute. Casemiro’s long ball over Brighton’s back line fell perfectly at the feet of the Portuguese defender, who slotted past Jason Steele.
Rasmus Hojlund soon doubled United’s lead . He combined with fellow substitute Christian Eriksen, before driving the ball low into the net with his weaker right foot.
Erik ten Hag’s men travel to Wembley next week, where they face Manchester City, fresh from wrapping up their unprecedented fourth Premier League title in a row. Victory would give Manchester United a spot in next season’s Europa League.
Meanwhile, Brighton, who will begin the search for De Zerbi’s replacement, finish the season in 11th.
