Manchester United’s recent draw against Brentford not only dented their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League but also highlighted the ongoing struggles under manager Erik ten Hag. The lackluster performance at the Gtech Community Stadium showcased a team that appeared second best for most of the game, raising questions about the tactical decisions and overall effectiveness of the coaching staff.
The defensive vulnerabilities of Manchester United were once again on display during the match against Brentford. With Brentford registering 31 shots and an xG of 3.19, it was evident that the United backline was struggling to deal with the attacking threat posed by the opposition. The inability to keep a clean sheet and the frequency of conceding a high number of shots have become a concerning trend for the team.
One of the key areas where Manchester United faltered against Brentford was in their game management. Despite taking the lead late in the game, they failed to see out the result and allowed Brentford to equalize in stoppage time. The lack of composure and defensive solidity in crucial moments reflects poorly on the coaching staff and raises questions about the team’s ability to close out games effectively.
Erik ten Hag’s post-match comments about the team’s lack of passion and desire are indicative of a deeper issue within the squad. While he acknowledged the need for greater intensity and aggression, the fact that he had to address these shortcomings at this stage of the season is concerning. The lack of consistent fighting spirit and determination from the players reflects poorly on the team’s overall mentality.
In addition to defensive frailties, Manchester United also struggled to create clear-cut chances and assert dominance in the attacking third. The team’s lack of creativity and clinical finishing was evident throughout the game, as they struggled to break down Brentford’s defense and create meaningful opportunities to score. The reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play is a worrying sign for the team’s attacking capabilities.
Overall, Manchester United’s performance against Brentford epitomizes the ongoing struggles under Erik ten Hag’s management. From defensive vulnerabilities to a lack of game management and attacking impetus, the team’s shortcomings were on full display during the match. Unless significant improvements are made in these areas, the team’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League and the manager’s job security remain in jeopardy. It is imperative that the coaching staff address these issues promptly and instill a sense of urgency and purpose in the team to turn their season around.
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