Manchester United’s 3-1 defeat to Brentford exposed defensive frailties, a missed Bruno Fernandes penalty, and underwhelming displays across the pitch despite Benjamin Sesko’s first goal for the club.
Manchester United’s struggles at Brentford deepened with a 3-1 defeat, as Bruno Fernandes’ missed penalty summed up another frustrating outing under Ruben Amorim, who has yet to secure back-to-back wins.
Igor Thiago struck twice inside the opening 20 minutes to rattle United, before Benjamin Sesko pulled one back with his first goal for the club after a scrappy box melee.
United reached half-time looking shaky at the back but occasionally dangerous going forward, though the second half brought little improvement, with travelling fans urging more urgency.
Bryan Mbeumo won a penalty on his return, but Fernandes failed to convert, leaving Amorim’s side toothless and short of answers before Brentford added a third in stoppage time to seal United’s misery.
Man Utd player ratings vs Brentford
Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir (4) was not directly culpable for any of the goals but failed to make key saves. Another bad day at the office for the United keeper. It’s time for Altay to give way for Senne Lammens to be given a chance.
In defence, Matthijs de Ligt (6/10) was solid overall but caught out for Brentford’s second, while Harry Maguire (5/10) struggled with the high line and allowed Igor Thiago space to score the opener.
Luke Shaw (6/10) delivered a steady if unspectacular display, but Diogo Dalot (4/10) was consistently targeted and rattled on his flank.
Patrick Dorgu (6.5/10) offered energy and drew fouls with purposeful runs, whereas Manuel Ugarte (5/10) could not control the midfield tempo.
Captain Bruno Fernandes (4/10) was sloppy in possession and missed a penalty that summed up a poor night.
Up front, Matheus Cunha (7/10) was among the brighter performers, driving at Brentford’s defence, while Benjamin Sesko (6.5/10) netted his first United goal.
Bryan Mbeumo (6/10) was peripheral but won a penalty.
From the bench, Kobbie Mainoo (6/10) impressed with composure, Leny Yoro (6/10) was tidy in defence, Mason Mount (5/10) added energy but little quality, and Joshua Zirkzee (5/10) failed to influence the game.