Che Lessey's latest update after receiving a red card that caused Manchester United's exit from the FA Cup third round (Video).
On 12 Jan 2026 GMT+7, 18-year-old rising midfielder Che Lessey spoke out after being involved in Manchester United's disappointing home 1-2 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion, resulting in a quick third-round FA Cup exit.
In this match, Che Lessey was substituted on for Mason Mount in the 62nd minute but only played 27 minutes before receiving a yellow-red card in the 89th minute. He lost his temper and threw the ball to show frustration at a foul call during a clash with Ferdy Kadioglu.
After being sent off, Che Lessey appeared to cry and covered his face with his shirt while walking off the pitch, despite still receiving applause from Manchester United fans.
However, this means Manchester United have been eliminated in the first round they competed in both domestic cup competitions this season (they lost on penalties to Grimsby Town in the League Cup second round). This is the first time since the 1981-82 season that the "Red Devils" will play only 40 matches this season, the fewest since 1914-15, 111 years ago.
Che Lessey posted a photo with a message on his personal social media apologizing to Manchester United fans after the FA Cup exit: "I apologize to my teammates, staff, and all the fans. I let everyone down tonight. I shouldn’t have let my emotions get the better of me. I will do everything I can to make this right."
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