Manchester United wrapped up their Premier League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, courtesy of goals from Diogo Dalot and Rasmus Hojlund.
Despite the win, it was a disappointing season for United as they finished in eighth place, their lowest position in the Premier League era, behind Newcastle United on goal difference.
The game took on added significance with the announcement that Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi would be leaving the club after the match.
Brighton dominated the first half and came close to scoring early in the second, but Joao Pedro’s shot was cleared off the line by Casemiro.
United took the lead in the 73rd minute through Dalot after a defensive error by Igor Julio. Hojlund sealed the win in the 88th minute, giving Erik ten Hag’s side a confidence boost ahead of their FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace ended their season on a high with a 5-0 thrashing of Aston Villa.
Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a hat trick, becoming the first Palace player to achieve this feat at Selhurst Park in a Premier League match.
Eberechi Eze also found the net twice as Palace equalled their best-ever Premier League finish, securing 10th place with 49 points.
Aston Villa, who had already secured fourth place and a spot in next season’s Champions League, fielded a weakened side and were no match for Palace’s dominance.
Villa manager Unai Emery even included his son, Lander Emery, on the substitutes bench for the match.
