Manchester United's lackluster performance in their recent 1-1 draw with Brentford has left manager Erik ten Hag expressing disappointment over the team's display. The match saw United struggle for much of the game, with Brentford dominating play and ultimately securing a well-deserved equalizer in the 99th minute through Kristoffer Ajer.
Ten Hag acknowledged the shortcomings of his team, citing a lack of passion and fight as key factors in the result. Despite showing resilience, the manager emphasized the need for more aggressiveness and desire throughout the game, especially when in a winning position late on.
The draw dealt a blow to United's Champions League qualification hopes, with rivals Aston Villa and Tottenham securing victories earlier in the day. Ten Hag remains optimistic about the team's prospects but recognizes the importance of maximizing points in the remaining fixtures.
Looking ahead, United face tough challenges against Chelsea and Liverpool, with defensive vulnerabilities coming under scrutiny. The team has conceded 20 or more shots in nine of their last 11 games, prompting questions about their defensive solidity.
Ten Hag defended the team's approach, highlighting moments of low defensive blocks and the direct style of Brentford as contributing factors. He praised goalkeeper André Onana for his standout performance and emphasized the team's overall consistency in results since January.
Despite the setbacks, Ten Hag remains focused on the upcoming fixtures and the need to address defensive issues while maintaining a competitive edge. The draw against Brentford serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead for Manchester United as they strive to secure their objectives for the season.
