Manchester United suffered a dramatic 4-3 defeat to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Sunday.
United head coach Ruben Amorim made several changes, clearly focusing on Thursday’s crucial Europa League semi-final clash with Athletic Bilbao.
Chido Obi was handed the responsibility of leading United’s attack, with Rasmus Hojlund rested ahead of the European showdown.
In his first start in over four months, Mason Mount put United ahead with a clinical finish, following a brilliant assist from Alejandro Garnacho.
United’s lead was short-lived as Luke Shaw’s unfortunate own goal brought Brentford back into the game, before Kevin Schade delivered a brace either side of the break.
Yoane Wissa then extended Brentford’s lead to 4-1, seemingly sealing the game for the hosts.
However, a late surge from United, including goals from Garnacho and Amad Diallo, sparked a glimmer of hope, making for a tense final few minutes.
Despite their late rally, another league defeat saw United slip to 15th place in the Premier League, adding further pressure ahead of their upcoming European tie.
Player Ratings
Altay Bayindir – 6/10
Though he appeared uncomfortable during set-pieces, the goalkeeper pulled off two superb saves.
Tyler Fredricson – 5/10
The 20-year-old showcased his adaptability with a confident shift to the right side of the back three and looked composed on the ball.
His positioning could have been better for Brentford’s third and fourth goals.
Matthijs de Ligt – 5/10
De Ligt unfortunately got injured in the 35th minute and could miss the crucial showdown on Thursday.
Luke Shaw – 4/10
Wearing the captain’s armband, Shaw struggled to lead by example, with an indecisive performance that was ultimately marred by an own goal.
Patrick Dorgu – 5/10
A forgettable outing for the young Dane, who was caught flat-footed at the far post, allowing Schade to ghost in behind and nod the hosts into the lead.
Harry Amass – 5/10
The teenager endured a tough outing, frequently troubled by Bryan Mbeumo and offering little support going forward for United.
Manuel Ugarte – 7/10
Ugarte made a bright start but gave away possession cheaply and was forced to pick up a booking in an attempt to recover his mistake. He won the ball several times and bagged another assist for Diallo’s goal.
Kobbie Mainoo – 5/10
Mainoo played a key role in the opener with slick interplay to release Garnacho, but his lack of defensive presence left United exposed in midfield at crucial moments.
Mason Mount – 7/10
The England international timed his run to perfection, capping off a beautifully crafted team move with a confident finish. He nearly turned provider when he attempted to return the favour to Garnacho at the cusp of break.
Alejandro Garnacho – 8/10
Garnacho sparked the game into life with a superb assist for Mount early on but squandered a golden opportunity to equalise when the favour was returned by the Englishman.
The 20-year-old attacker brought United back with a sensational strike, curling the ball into the top-right corner with precision and power.
Chido Obi – 6/10
A landmark afternoon for the 17-year-old on his full debut, where he displayed admirable tenacity, though a lack of service meant he remained on the fringes for much of the contest.
He came close to scoring his first senior goal after displaying his quick feet.
Substitutions
Harry Maguire – 5/10
He came off the bench earlier than anticipated due to De Ligt’s injury, but thankfully finished the match unscathed, which was the best news for United.
Amad Diallo – 5/10
His performance highlighted the rust from his time on the sidelines, struggling to find his rhythm since coming on at the break. He still managed to score a stunning 94th-minute goal in his typical trademark style.
Leny Yoro – 6/10
Yoro looked much better than Shaw in the left centre-back spot.
Christian Eriksen – 6/10
A bright cameo from the former Brentford man and picked up an assist for Garnacho’s curling strike.
Victor Lindelof – NA
Too late to rate.
