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Brentford 3-1 Man United: Fernandes penalty miss costly as Red Devils slump after Chelsea win

Manchester United failed once again to secure back-to-back Premier League victories after falling 3-1 to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Bruno Fernandes’ missed penalty in the second half proved crucial as Ruben Amorim’s side slipped back into old habits just a week after defeating Chelsea.

United’s barren run of consecutive league wins now stretches back to May 2024.

Brentford capitalise on United’s frailties

Brentford’s Benjamin Sesko finally opened his account after earlier misses. Harry Maguire’s failed attempt to play Igor Thiago offside gifted the hosts their opener before Thiago struck again on 20 minutes, pouncing after Altay Bayindir parried into his path.

Brentford 3-1 Man United: Fernandes penalty miss costly as Red Devils slump after Chelsea win
Sesko scored his first goal for United in the match – Getty image

Mathias Jensen sealed the win in added time, leaving United’s defence and midfield exposed.

Despite Bayindir producing several key saves, United’s lack of urgency and poor pressing left them under constant pressure.

Fernandes and Dalot show frustration

Fernandes cut a frustrated figure throughout the game, arguing with teammates and officials.

He was booked for a rash challenge on Dango Ouattara after protesting referee Craig Pawson’s decisions.

Diogo Dalot, back from injury, endured a torrid afternoon, repeatedly beaten for pace and misplacing key passes.

His lapse of concentration contributed to Brentford’s dominance on the flanks, with United supporters voicing their anger from the stands.

Amorim under pressure again

Manager Ruben Amorim stuck to his 3-4-2-1 system despite United struggling for attacking fluency.

Mason Mount was deployed out wide, but the tactical shift failed to change the flow of the game.