5 Things We Learned from Manchester United’s 3-1 Defeat to Brentford

1️⃣ Outdated 3-4-3 Formation

United lined up in a 3-4-3 system, but instead of providing balance, it exposed the team’s weaknesses. The wing-backs were constantly pinned back, leaving the midfield overrun and the front three isolated. In modern football, a 3-4-3 requires fluidity — United’s version looked rigid and outdated.

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2️⃣ Fragile Defence

The back three failed to cope with Brentford’s direct play. Poor marking, slow reaction to crosses, and lapses in concentration led to avoidable goals. Without leadership in the defensive line, United’s structure continues to crumble under pressure.

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3️⃣ Static Tactics from the Coach

The manager failed to make in-game adjustments. Even as Brentford gained momentum, United stuck to the same approach. A lack of tactical flexibility and reactive coaching made it easy for the home side to control the flow of the game.

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4️⃣ Lack of Creativity in Midfield

With four across midfield, United should have controlled possession, but instead they lacked ideas. There was no spark to break Brentford’s lines, and transitions into attack were slow. Creativity remains one of the biggest missing pieces in this squad.

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5️⃣ Top Four Dreams Fading

Performances like this show why United are unlikely to finish in the top four. Rivals are sharper, more organized, and tactically advanced. Unless there’s a major shift in strategy and mentality, Champions League qualification looks very far away.

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Final Thoughts

The 3-4-3 experiment once again highlighted more problems than solutions. Weak defence, predictable tactics, and lack of invention leave Manchester United looking far from a top-four side. Urgent changes are needed if the season is to be salvaged.