Manchester United face Brentford in Saturday tea time clash.

2024-10-13

As Manchester United seek redemption after a goalless spell and desperate to reignite their season, they face a resilient Brentford side at Old Trafford, where the Bees aim to disrupt history and secure their first away win of the campaign.

Manchester United

While a goalless draw against Aston Villa took some pressure off Erik ten Hag, the result was not what Manchester United had hoped for. Rumours of a possible replacement during the international break were rife, but the Dutch coach managed to keep his job.

Manchester United, now sitting in 14th place, will be keen to return to winning ways after going three games without a victory. A recent dip in form has seen them secure just one win in their last six Premier League outings.

Although they haven't scored in any of their last three league matches, the Red Devils risk going four games without a goal for the first time since April 1989. However, history is on their side as they have won their last five home league games against Brentford by an aggregate score of 13-2.

A potential 4-2-3-1 formation with Joshua Zirkzee leading the attack might be on display. Erik ten Hag will have to navigate the match without up to six players, with doubts surrounding Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Mason Mount, while Noussair Mazraoui and Harry Maguire are confirmed absentees.

Brentford

Brentford are only outside the upper half of the Premier League table by goal difference, having recently ended a three-game winless run [WLLDW]. Their thrilling 5-3 victory against Wolves marked Brentford's third win of the season [3W, 1D, 3L].

Aiming for a fourth victory, Thomas Frank's team sits in 11th place with 10 points. However, they face a challenge, having lost all three of their Premier League away games so far this season. The Bees haven't endured four consecutive away defeats since the 1961-62 season—an outcome Frank is keen to avoid, as he celebrates six years at the helm.

Thomas Frank, appointed on October 16, 2018, is the second manager to guide Brentford in the top flight, recording the most wins in his first 200 games for the team [90]. The team is expected to line up in a 4—2—3—1 formation, with Kevin Schade leading the attack.

However, Brentford will be without Yoane Wissa, Josh Dasilva, and three other players for the weekend's game, which may require adjustments to their strategy.