Manchester United faces disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) after losing 2:1 to Brighton at Old Trafford 

Manchester United faces disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) after losing 2:1 to Brighton at Old Trafford

Manchester United may face disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) following an incident involving their players surrounding the referee after Joao Pedro’s disallowed goal during their 3-1 defeat to Brighton at Old Trafford as reported by FootballInsider247.

 

The controversial moment came after Pedro thought he had given Brighton the lead with a goal from a scrambled free-kick.

 

However, a VAR review ruled the goal out, citing a “careless challenge” in the buildup.

 

Peter Bankes, the on-field referee, had initially allowed the goal, but was instructed by VAR official Craig Pawson to review the situation on the screen.

 

“It was the correct decision to disallow the goal,” said former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett, emphasizing the need for accurate officiating in such moments.

 

Despite the ruling, the decision was met with immediate protests from United’s players, who surrounded Bankes, leading to concerns about the behavior on the pitch.

 

Hackett explained that any incident where three or more players surround the referee must be reported to the FA, which will decide whether any sanctions are warranted after reviewing the report.

 

“When three or more players surround the referee, he has to report this on the Special Incident electronic report form,” he noted.

 

The defeat to Brighton added to United’s frustrations, as they have struggled this season, dropping to 13th in the league after a series of disappointing results.

 

Alongside their poor form, the possibility of an FA fine due to their players’ conduct adds to the mounting pressure on the club.

 

The FA will review the situation and determine whether Manchester United should face any penalties.

 

Real Betis is nearing an agreement to bring Manchester United winger Antony to La Liga on a loan deal until June. According to a report by ESPN, negotiations are in the final stages, with no purchase option included in the deal. Antony has shown openness to the move, while Manchester United has agreed to cover part of his salary during the loan period, ensuring the financial feasibility of the arrangement.

 

Antony’s potential move comes as the Brazilian winger looks for more consistent playing time after struggling to make a significant impact at Old Trafford. Since his high-profile transfer from Ajax in 2022, Antony has been underwhelming in his performances, scoring only a handful of goals. At Real Betis, he will have the opportunity to rejuvenate his career under a new system and environment, which could suit his playing style better.

 

Real Betis is keen to strengthen its squad, particularly in the attacking department, as they aim to secure European competition next season. Manager Manuel Pellegrini sees Antony as a dynamic option to improve their wing play and add creativity to the team. With La Liga proving to be a competitive stage, the loan spell could also allow Antony to rediscover his confidence and consistency, both of which have eluded

him in the Premier League.