Manchester United ease pressure on Ten Hag with victory against Brentford

For the second consecutive season, Manchester United overcame a deficit to achieve a vital victory over Brentford at Old Trafford, alleviating pressure on manager Erik ten Hag.

United found themselves trailing at halftime due to Ethan Pinnock’s contentious injury-time header, which occurred while Matthijs de Ligt was off the field receiving treatment for a head injury.

However, at the beginning of the second half, Alejandro Garnacho ended the home side’s 316-minute Premier League goal drought with a brilliant first-time finish from Marcus Rashford’s cross.

Striker Rasmus Hojlund secured the win for the hosts in the 62nd minute, running onto Bruno Fernandes’ exquisite flicked pass with the outside of his boot and calmly chipping the ball over Brentford keeper Mark Flekken, who had come out to challenge.

While this match may not have matched the excitement of last season’s encounter, in which Scott McTominay’s late double dashed Brentford’s hopes of a first win at this venue since 1937, this victory could hold greater significance for Ten Hag.

The Dutchman has criticized the media for fabricating “fairytales and lies” regarding his job security. With United starting the match in 14th place, a defeat would have only intensified the negativity surrounding Ten Hag ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash against Fenerbahce.

Garnacho the United saviour

If anyone appeared poised to end United’s lengthy wait for a Premier League goal, it was Garnacho.

The young Argentine was eager to get involved, consistently backing himself, even if his execution didn’t always match his ambition.

Twice in the first half, he found space at the left edge of the penalty area. On the first attempt, Flekken made the save, and on the second, Garnacho fired a wild shot wide when he should have done better.

Garnacho’s goal was a stunning display of skill as he watched Rashford’s cross float into the box. His body positioning was impeccable as he finished, racing to the corner flag to celebrate with supporters, whose relief was palpable.

Shortly afterward, Garnacho tried again from distance, but this time Flekken managed to tip it away with a full-stretch save.

Garnacho had one last chance to score a second before leaving the pitch to a standing ovation, but once again, Flekken was up to the task.

At just 20 years old, United should not have to rely so heavily on the young talent. However, with Rashford struggling to find his form, Hojlund inconsistent despite his standout goal, and Joshua Zirkzee not quite meeting expectations, that’s the current situation.

Ten Hag can only hope that the young player can maintain his form for a while longer.

Player of the Match: A. Garnacho