Brighton & Hove Albion face a tough test this weekend as they travel to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United on Saturday evening (5.30pm kick-off), and all eyes are on the fitness of star winger Kaoru Mitoma.
The Japan international has missed the Seagulls’ last two Premier League games — a 1–1 draw at Wolves and a 2–1 win over Newcastle United — after suffering an ankle injury during the 3–1 victory at Chelsea earlier this month.
Mitoma update: “We have to be patient”
Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler confirmed that Mitoma remains in recovery and that the club are being cautious not to rush him back too soon.
“Mitoma still has to recover from his hit,” Hürzeler said after the win over Newcastle. “We try to bring him back as quick as possible. He was close, but we have to be patient with him. Let’s see how the next days are going.”
Mitoma’s availability could be key for Hürzeler’s side, with his pace and creativity vital in transition. His absence has been felt on the left flank, and Brighton will be desperate to have him fit for the trip to Manchester.
Another setback for Diego Gómez
Brighton have fresh injury concerns on the opposite wing, with Diego Gómez facing a race against time to be fit for the United clash.
The Paraguayan international picked up a thigh problem while on international duty and suffered a further hip injury during the win over Newcastle, forcing him off after just 35 minutes.
Hürzeler confirmed the nature of the issue to Sussex World:
“I don’t think it’s the same injury. I think it’s a hit on his hip. I can’t give any more information, but we have to wait for the scan.”
Gómez’s potential absence leaves Brighton short of natural left-sided options, though the manager does have alternatives.
Kadioglu and Minteh ready to step in
Ferdi Kadioglu could deputise on the left, while Yankuba Minteh — who has featured on both flanks this season — may also start. The 20-year-old Gambian has impressed with his direct style and willingness to take on defenders.
Hürzeler said getting players like Minteh into dangerous areas is key to Brighton’s attacking success.
“It’s always important to bring our wingers in one-against-one situations, especially Minteh. He’s a very fast player so you need to get him into those positions,” said Hürzeler. “We have to have different variations in attack, not only rely on Minteh. We also have other players who can score and create something.”
Hürzeler demands “100 per cent” from his players
Brighton’s win over Newcastle lifted them to 10th in the Premier League, just one place behind Manchester United, who sit ninth after their 2–1 triumph at Anfield.
Hürzeler has challenged his players to maintain focus and intensity as they prepare for another big test.
“We can only be competitive if we have togetherness,” he said. “If these behaviours become a habit, then we can beat every team in the league. But if we do even a little less, then you won’t win games in the Premier League.”
Our View: Brighton must balance patience and ambition
In our view, Hürzeler faces a delicate balancing act ahead of Saturday’s trip to Old Trafford. Mitoma’s dynamism is central to Brighton’s attacking rhythm, but rushing him back could risk aggravating his ankle issue.
With Gómez doubtful, tactical flexibility from players like Kadioglu and Minteh will be vital. If Brighton can maintain their intensity without their first-choice wingers, they have every chance of causing Manchester United problems.
Key Insights
- Kaoru Mitoma remains a doubt for the Manchester United clash
- Diego Gómez could miss out after hip and thigh issues
- Ferdi Kadioglu and Yankuba Minteh in line to fill the wide roles
- Fabian Hürzeler urges his squad to maintain “togetherness” and intensity
- Brighton currently sit 10th in the Premier League table
What’s Next
Manchester United vs Brighton kicks off at 5.30pm on Saturday, 25 October, live from Old Trafford. The Seagulls will hope to extend their unbeaten run to four matches — and potentially welcome Mitoma back to action.
👉 Can Brighton cope without Mitoma and Gómez at Old Trafford?
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