Manchester United endured another frustrating Premier League evening as they slumped to a 3-1 defeat against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. The result leaves the 20-time champions with three losses from their opening six league fixtures, continuing their inconsistent run under head coach Ruben Amorim.
The game started in disastrous fashion for United, who conceded within eight minutes. Igor Thiago latched onto a lapse in concentration from Harry Maguire to fire Brentford into the lead. Just twelve minutes later, the forward doubled his tally, punishing Altay Bayindir after the goalkeeper failed to properly deal with a routine effort.
United responded through Benjamin Sesko, who opened his account for the club with a well-taken goal in the 26th minute, sparking hope of a comeback. After the break, Amorim’s side pushed for an equaliser and came close when Bryan Mbeumo won a contentious penalty in the 73rd minute. However, Sesko’s effort was denied by Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, ensuring the Bees maintained their advantage.
As the visitors committed men forward in stoppage time, Brentford sealed victory on the counterattack. Mathias Jensen struck a sensational effort from the edge of the box in the 95th minute, leaving United empty-handed once again.
After the match, Amorim admitted his side had been drawn into Brentford’s style of play instead of imposing their own game plan. “We wanted to win, but we didn’t control the match. We played Brentford’s game. We were confused with first balls, second balls, and set pieces. In key moments, everything went against us,” he said.
The Portuguese coach acknowledged glimpses of fight but stressed the need for greater consistency. “At certain moments we managed to push them back, but it wasn’t enough. Conceding another defeat hurts, but we must improve.”
United now turn their attention to a crucial home fixture against Sunderland before the international break. With a trip to Liverpool looming immediately after, Amorim will be under pressure to find solutions quickly and stabilise his team’s faltering season
