The atmosphere inside Old Trafford has rarely felt as bleak as it did in the aftermath of Manchester United’s crushing 2–1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton.
What unfolded on Sunday was more than just another disappointing result—it felt like a symbolic moment, one that underlined how far the club has drifted from the standards that once defined it.
As attention moved away from the pitch, all eyes turned toward the directors’ box, where Sir Alex Ferguson sat watching what many described as the unravelling of the institution he painstakingly built over decades.
Although Ferguson has long chosen to remain publicly reserved when it comes to criticizing individuals or club leadership, those close to him suggest his reaction behind closed doors has been anything but calm.
Insiders describe the legendary former manager as deeply angered by the latest humiliation, particularly given its historical significance.
The loss marked the first time since the 1981–82 season that Manchester United have been eliminated from both domestic cup competitions at the very first stage—an unthinkable statistic for a club of such stature.
In the hours following the match, rumours began circulating regarding Ferguson’s private feelings toward the club’s current hierarchy and squad.
While a quote attributed to him on social media—allegedly calling for sweeping changes at board level and branding some players as “pathetic”—has not been officially confirmed, the frustration within Old Trafford was impossible to ignore.
Ferguson was seated alongside former United stalwarts Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, and witnesses described all three as visibly stunned as ex-United striker Danny Welbeck delivered the decisive blow.
One spectator near the directors’ area compared the scene to a funeral, noting Ferguson repeatedly shaking his head as United’s disjointed tactics and lack of cohesion were exposed.
The sense of disbelief was shared by supporters throughout the stadium, many of whom felt they were watching a team completely detached from its identity.
While criticism has been widespread, one player has borne the brunt of the backlash: Diogo Dalot.
The right-back, who has remained a regular starter under multiple managers, endured a torrid afternoon against Brighton. His display was heavily scrutinized, with several major outlets rating his performance poorly.
Statistics from the match only intensified the criticism—Dalot reportedly lost the majority of his individual duels and was caught out of position for both goals conceded.
Supporters have since branded him a defensive liability, arguing that a lack of genuine competition in his position has contributed to declining standards.
Calls for reinforcements at right-back have grown louder, with many urging the club to act decisively in the January transfer window.
Beyond individual performances, the broader picture is even more troubling.
With Darren Fletcher currently serving as caretaker, Manchester United appear rudderless, lacking clear direction both tactically and culturally.
Sitting 17 points behind league leaders Arsenal, the narrative of a “club in decline” is gaining traction.
The pressure now rests firmly on Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS leadership to demonstrate that they can halt the downward spiral.
As one supporter outside the Stretford End put it bluntly: if Sir Alex Ferguson is this furious, then the alarm bells should be ringing across the entire football world.
The standards that once defined Manchester United are slipping away—and time is running out to restore them.
