Manchester United vs Brentford
Premier League
Saturday
7th October 2023
Old Trafford
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the gameweek eight Premier League fixture between Manchester United and Brentford.
Manchester United vs Brentford: Preview
Manchester United form analysis
United had an entertaining 3-2 home win over Forest despite going two down early, with Eriksen and Fernandes completing the comeback. However, defensive issues surfaced in a 1-3 home loss to Arsenal, with only Rashford on target. United’s problems at the back continued in a 1-3 thrashing away at Brighton, conceding cheap goals despite Mejbri’s late strike.
They returned to winning ways by edging past Burnley 1-0 away, thanks to a Bruno Fernandes goal on the stroke of halftime. Most recently though, United suffered another narrow 1-0 home defeat, this time against Crystal Palace after Andersen’s first half goal.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent start to Ten Hag’s reign as United struggle defensively. They’ve showcased their attacking threat, led by Eriksen’s creativity. But sloppy mistakes at the back have cost them dearly in games like the losses to Brighton and Palace.
If Ten Hag can make United more solid defensively, they have the firepower to trouble any opponent. But restoring organization and concentration at the back is crucial after a mixed start. There are still clear flaws for Ten Hag to address.
Brentford form analysis
Brentford began with a 1-1 home draw against Crystal Palace, taking the lead through Schade before Andersen equalized. A spirited 2-2 home draw with Bournemouth came next as Jensen and Mbeumo scored either side of goals from Solanke and Brooks.
However, a Wilson penalty cost Brentford their first loss when traveling to Newcastle. Despite Jensen tying up Doucoure’s early opener in a 1-3 home loss to Everton, defensive difficulties subsequently reappeared. Most recently though, Brentford returned to form by grinding out a 1-1 away draw at Nottingham Forest thanks to Norgaard’s goal.
Overall, Brentford have been competitive in most games, showcasing both their attacking threat and defensive vulnerabilities. Going forward, the likes of Mbeumo and Jensen have impressed. But their high defensive line has been breached too easily at times. The win at Fulham demonstrated their qualities, but greater consistency is required. If Thomas Frank can retain Brentford’s attacking spark while tightening up at the back, they have a strong platform to build on. But improving their defensive organization is key.
