Manchester United's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League took a hit with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Brentford. The lackluster performance at the Gtech Community Stadium has raised further questions about Erik ten Hag's future as the club's manager.
Despite salvaging a late draw, United were largely outplayed by Brentford throughout the match. The late equalizer by Mason Mount masked the reality that United were fortunate to come away with a point.
Ten Hag's celebrations after the match did little to hide the fact that his team was second best for most of the game. The result leaves United's Champions League aspirations hanging by a thread, with the team already facing an uphill battle to secure a top-four finish.
Brentford's dominance was evident as they had 85 touches in the Manchester United box, the most by any team in a Premier League match in the last three seasons. Despite numerous chances, Brentford were unable to convert their opportunities into goals, with Ivan Toney's disallowed goal epitomizing their frustration.
United's defensive frailties were once again exposed, with Brentford registering 31 shots and an xG of 3.19. The performance highlighted the team's struggles at the back, with United conceding 20 or more shots in nine of their last 11 games.
Mount's late goal and Lisandro Martínez's return from injury were the only bright spots for United in an otherwise dismal display. With crucial fixtures against Chelsea and Liverpool on the horizon, ten Hag faces mounting pressure to turn the team's fortunes around.
If United fail to improve their performances in the coming matches, their hopes of Champions League football could be dashed, and ten Hag's tenure as manager may be in jeopardy.
