Manchester United’s rocky start to the season took another hit with a damaging loss to Brentford on Saturday.
The lunchtime kick-off at the Gtech Community Stadium turned into another nightmare for Ruben Amorim’s side, as the hosts punished United’s shaky defense with clinical finishing.
Brentford’s Igor Thiago grabbed the spotlight with a first-half double that left the visitors chasing the game from the start.
United briefly threatened a fightback when a Caoimhin Kelleher mistake allowed them to pull a goal back.
The former Liverpool goalkeeper later redeemed himself by saving a Bruno Fernandes penalty, keeping the home side in control.
Mathias Jensen then sealed the result with a stoppage-time strike, sending the Bees buzzing and United back to the drawing board.
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Shearer slams Man Utd forwards
Speaking on BBC Sport, Alan Shearer highlighted the impact of Brentford’s new striker. “Igor Thiago barely played last season because of injury but he’s got his two goals in that half and that’s what a striker is going to get judged for,”
Shearer said. “He looks like he can fill the void left by Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa. He’s brought people into the game and has been more involved than Benjamin Sesko.”
Shearer’s comments will sting United fans almost as much as the result. His praise for Thiago underlined Brentford’s smart recruitment and ability to replace key attackers, while United’s own forwards struggled to create chances.
Micah Richards was even sharper in his criticism of United’s defensive shape. He called their display “shambolic,” pointing to confusion at the back and poor positioning from Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt.
The defeat leaves United behind Brentford on goal difference and raises fresh questions about Ruben Amorim’s tactics.
With pressure building and pundits circling, Old Trafford will need a quick response before the season slips further away.
Manchester United news and related links
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- Bruno Fernandes surprises Man Utd youngster as Amorim plots major exits
- Why Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd exit might not be as simple as it seemed