Diogo Dalot calls for unity at Manchester United after FA Cup exit to Brighton

Diogo Dalot has urged Manchester United’s players to stick together and move on quickly after another damaging FA Cup exit, insisting unity will be crucial as the club attempts to salvage its season.

United’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford confirmed a grim statistic: the Red Devils have been knocked out at the first hurdle of both domestic cup competitions for the first time since the 1981–82 campaign.

The disappointment follows August’s Carabao Cup humiliation against Grimsby Town, a result that proved to be the lowest point of Ruben Amorim’s tenure before his eventual dismissal.

With Darren Fletcher overseeing Sunday’s FA Cup defeat in a temporary capacity, United’s trophy hopes are already over just 11 days into 2026.

Speaking to MUTV, Dalot stressed the importance of collective responsibility as the squad waits to learn who will lead them for the remainder of the season.

“Not just the leaders but all the group – you have to find ways to overcome this,” the Portugal international said.

“To find energy between each other, to come to training, be professional and give your best during the week to prepare for big games.”

United’s leadership structure is under intense scrutiny, with director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada facing key decisions in the coming days.

Former managers Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Michael Carrick are understood to be frontrunners for the interim role, with United currently sitting seventh in the Premier League and chasing Champions League qualification as their sole remaining objective.

Dalot was keen to acknowledge the supporters, praising their backing even as frustration grows at Old Trafford.

“We know games like this can change momentum and give the crowd energy to push us forward,” he added.
“But credit to the fans, because even in difficult moments they are always trying to support us.”

United’s immediate focus now turns to Saturday’s derby against Manchester City, a fixture that could significantly influence the direction of their season.

United’s players have been granted two pre-planned days off, with clarity over the club’s short-term leadership expected before preparations resume midweek.

Fletcher, who was parachuted into the role following Amorim’s departure, is scheduled to attend a meeting at Carrington and may yet form part of the backroom staff under the next appointment.

Reflecting on his spell in charge, the 41-year-old admitted his frustration.

“I am more disappointed than anybody because I care for the club,” Fletcher said.
“It’s not about me. It’s about helping the players, the club helping them, and them helping themselves.”

Can Manchester United regroup in time to rescue their season after another cup disappointment?