McKenna watches from Old Trafford directors' box as Brighton stun 10-minute leaders United

Kieran McKenna watched from the Old Trafford directors’ box as Brighton & Hove Albion came from two goals down to beat Manchester United in the Carabao Cup third round, a result that intensifies scrutiny on interim manager Michael Carrick.

United led 2-0 inside ten minutes before Brighton completed a remarkable turnaround — the first time in half a century that United have surrendered such a lead at home to lose the match. McKenna, who has strong ties to the club as a former under-18s head coach and first-team assistant, witnessed the collapse in person, just over three months after stepping away from football management.

The 40-year-old Northern Irishman left Ipswich Town this summer following five seasons in Suffolk, during which he guided the club to three promotions, including two to the Premier League. He cited a desire to spend time with his family as his reason for stepping back. “I now look forward to taking a break from management and dedicating some time to my family, who have been with me every step of my career so far,” he said upon his departure.

McKenna’s presence at Old Trafford is unlikely to go unnoticed given the circumstances. United had previously been linked with rehiring him after the 2023/24 season, though he ultimately signed a new four-year contract at Ipswich before eventually leaving the role. Brighton and Chelsea were also among the clubs reported to have shown interest in him during his time at Portman Road.

Carrick, who returned to United in similarly pressured circumstances, now faces back-to-back defeats and mounting questions about the club’s direction. He has pushed back on suggestions that his position is under threat. “I don’t feel under pressure,” he said. “Either way, that doesn’t bother me one bit. I understand what goes on outside and how the world works, but it doesn’t bother me. What bothers me is winning games, having a good feeling around the place and a good feeling around the group to know we’re moving in a good direction.”

United’s next fixture is an away trip to Fulham, after which an international break provides a near three-week pause before competitive action resumes.