Manchester United endured another damaging blow to their campaign as they slumped to a disappointing 3–1 defeat against Brentford, a result that has only intensified the mounting scrutiny surrounding manager Rúben Amorim. The aftermath of the match was particularly harsh, with several senior players being handed damning ratings of just four out of ten—an unmistakable sign of how far the team fell short of expectations on the day.
Defensively, United were all over the place. Their backline looked disjointed and disorganised, repeatedly caught out by Brentford’s clever movement and relentless pressing. Simple passes were turned into dangerous opportunities for the home side, and the lack of communication at the back left goalkeeper and defenders equally exposed. Instead of showing resilience or structure, United’s defence invited pressure, and Brentford took full advantage of the chaos.
In midfield, things were hardly better. The engine room of the team, normally expected to provide composure, control, and a steady rhythm, looked completely absent. United failed to dictate the tempo or protect the defence, leaving wide gaps that Brentford exploited with ease. Players who are usually tasked with keeping possession and transitioning play struggled to impose themselves, resulting in long spells where Brentford comfortably controlled proceedings.
Going forward, Manchester United were equally uninspiring. The attacking players—often relied upon to create sparks of brilliance and decisive moments—were flat, lacking urgency, sharpness, and creativity. Brentford’s defenders were rarely troubled, as United’s forwards failed to stretch the game or pose a consistent threat in front of goal. The lack of intensity in the final third became one of the most glaring aspects of the defeat, reinforcing the impression of a side playing without confidence or conviction.
As the game wore on, Brentford’s dominance was evident, and the frustration at Old Trafford grew louder. Supporters, who had hoped for a stronger performance, were left disillusioned, while pundits and analysts openly debated whether Amorim’s tactical blueprint is suited to the players at his disposal. Questions are increasingly being asked about his ability to adapt, inspire, and deliver results at the highest level.
These disappointing player ratings are not just reflections of an off day—they underscore a wider problem that has plagued United all season: fragility, inconsistency, and a worrying lack of resilience when tested. For Amorim, the stakes are now incredibly high. He must quickly demonstrate that he can rally his squad, address the glaring shortcomings in defence, midfield, and attack, and reignite belief both inside the dressing room and among supporters. If he fails to do so, Manchester United’s hopes of competing for the Premier League title or even securing Champions League qualification may evaporate far quicker than anyone anticipated.
