Manchester United Exits FA Cup After Defeat to Brighton; Arsenal Advances with Martinelli's Hat-Trick

FA Cup Upsets: Manchester United and Arsenal's Contrasting Fortunes

Manchester United faced a disappointing exit from the FA Cup, suffering a 2-1 defeat at home against Brighton on Sunday. In contrast, Arsenal advanced to the fourth round with a commanding 4-1 victory over Portsmouth, highlighted by Gabriel Martinelli's impressive hat-trick.

Interim manager Darren Fletcher watched helplessly as United's hopes for silverware this season evaporated at Old Trafford, likely diminishing his chances of securing the managerial position permanently.

United's lackluster start was evident as Brajan Gruda scored for Brighton just 12 minutes into the match, capitalizing on a cross from Danny Welbeck.

Midway through the second half, Welbeck struck again, this time against his former team, sealing United's fate.

Fans expressed their frustration with persistent chants directed at the Glazer family, the club's co-owners, and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, as discontent grew among the supporters.

The removal of Ruben Amorim as manager did not yield the desired results, leaving United with only 40 matches this season—their lowest tally since 1915.

"The players appear fragile, but they must respond," Fletcher remarked, emphasizing the team's potential for success if they can rally together.

A late header from Benjamin Sesko offered a glimmer of hope, but a red card for teenager Shea Lacey for dissent capped off a dismal day for United.

Meanwhile, Martinelli shrugged off criticism following a controversial incident involving Liverpool's Conor Bradley, as Arsenal reached the fourth round for the first time in three years.

Portsmouth initially took the lead with a goal from Colby Bishop just three minutes into the match, but Arsenal quickly equalized when Andre Dozzell inadvertently scored an own goal under pressure.

Martinelli then netted his first goal, and despite a missed penalty by Noni Madueke, he went on to complete his hat-trick, securing Arsenal's progression.

In other matches, West Ham relieved pressure on manager Nuno Espirito Santo with a 2-1 win over QPR, thanks to Taty Castellanos' first goal for the club. Leeds also advanced with a 3-1 victory against Derby County, while League One side Mansfield triumphed over Sheffield United with a thrilling 4-3 win.