In a thrilling encounter on Saturday night, Manchester United found themselves lucky to salvage a point against a dominant Brentford side, leaving manager Erik ten Hag under increasing pressure.
They were dominated by The Bees through-out the game, with Thomas Frank’s side attempting an incredible 31 shots against United’s 11.
Despite utter domination, they failed to put the ball in the back of the net until the 98th minute, 2 minutes after Manchester United scored against the run of play.
Mason Mount scored his first goal for the club with a great finish to give United the lead late in stoppage time.
But just when United thought they have snatched a win, Brentford equalised on the other end instantly, with Kristoffer Ajer slotting in Ivan Toney’s pass from close range.
Erik ten Hag failed to address Manchester United’s issues at half-time
Despite the Dutch manager having the interval to strategise and make necessary adjustments, the team failed to improve their performance in the second half.
Critics, including reports from the Manchester Evening News, have pointed out ten Hag’s apparent inability to adapt tactically and make impactful changes during matches.
Brentford were clearly enjoying and exploiting the space in the midfield against deep laying defence.
But yet, no effective solutions were implemented by ten Hag, with Brentford growing even strong in the second half, attempting another 17 shots.
Erik ten Hag under immense pressure
The result has only intensified the scrutiny on ten Hag, with questions raised about his suitability for the managerial role at Manchester United.
With performances like these, his job security is increasingly precarious, specially with reports suggesting that club owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is considering a managerial change.
Several names have been linked with the Manchester United managerial position, including England manager Gareth Southgate, indicating the growing uncertainty surrounding ten Hag’s future at the club.