Mainoo starts, Shaw out: Three Man United XI changes Fletcher could make vs Brighton

Manchester United are set to face Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford in the third round of the FA Cup on Sunday.

It will be Darren Fletcher’s second game in charge of the first team after the sacking of Ruben Amorim.

While the FA Cup often invites heavy rotation, Fletcher is unlikely to gamble excessively with wholesale changes.

We believe the former United midfielder could make three changes to his side this weekend.

Kobbie Mainoo starts

Kobbie Mainoo has endured a frustrating campaign so far, starting just once during the 2025–26 season.

That solitary appearance came in the humiliating Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town, a night to forget for both player and club.

Another domestic cup competition could now offer Mainoo the platform to reset his season.

The 20-year-old returned from a calf injury against Burnley as a substitute, but his cameo failed to ignite the midfield.

Despite the unwavering backing of the Old Trafford faithful, Mainoo now faces a moment that demands authority rather than promise.

He could replace Casemiro in the midfield, giving the Brazilian much-needed rest.

Leny Yoro replaces Ayden Heaven

Heaven has enjoyed a superb spell in the first team since last month.

The 19-year-old has looked remarkably composed in possession, confidently stepping out from defence and carrying the ball into midfield.

His tackling has been assertive, his positioning disciplined, and his maturity well beyond his years.

However, Fletcher may view the FA Cup as the ideal stage to reintroduce Leny Yoro into the starting XI.

The French youth international is another stellar talent and could become one of the best centre-backs of his generation.

A controlled rotation could see Heaven return later in the game, potentially replacing either Yoro or Lisandro Martinez in the second half.

Mason Mount returns, rest for Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw has been an ever-present figure in the league this season, a testament to both his importance and the careful workload management behind the scenes.

This fixture presents Fletcher with the perfect opportunity to rest Shaw and hand Patrick Dorgu a start at left-back.

Shifting Dorgu deeper would free up space on the left flank, where Mason Mount could be deployed in a more advanced wide role.

Mount has already found the net three times this season, and another goal could provide the confidence spark he has been searching for.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .