Liverpool manager Arne Slot has explained one thing that he noticed during Manchester United’s Saturday afternoon defeat to Brentford.
Manchester United fell 3-1 to Brentford on Saturday, with a controversial second-half incident sparking debate.
After last week’s win over Chelsea, United started poorly and were 2-0 down inside 20 minutes, though Benjamin Šeško pulled one back midway through the first half.
In the second half, Bryan Mbeumo was fouled in the box by former teammate Nathan Collins, handing United a penalty. While the spot-kick was clear, many felt Collins should also have seen red for making no attempt to play the ball. VAR reviewed the incident but took no further action.
Bruno Fernandes saw his penalty saved after a lengthy delay, and Brentford wrapped up the win with a late third goal.
Liverpool boss Slot explains what he noticed in United clash
United were troubled by Brentford’s set-pieces all afternoon and the Bees are not the only side to be taking advantage at set-pieces in the Premier League.
Arsenal have made a name for themselves with their goalscoring from corners in the last two years, while many teams are bringing back long throw-ins to try and score.
United’s rivals Liverpool lost their first league game of the season on Saturday as Crystal Palace scored a last-gasp winner. That goal came from a long throw-in.
After that game, Liverpool boss Arne Slot explained how important set-pieces are becoming in football, using the Brentford vs United game earlier in the day as a clear example.
“The game of football, especially in England, has changed almost to a set piece game,” Slot told reporters after the game.
“I was watching Brentford against Man United, and every ball that goes out was a long throw. You have to be able to defend.”
United must improve in many areas, set-pieces included
Slot’s observation is correct, and everyone is beginning to notice how important set-pieces are becoming once again in the Premier League.
For United, it feels like the team have been underwhelming in both attacking and defensive set-pieces for so many years. Amorim acknowledged that improvements need to be made in that area.
But it seems like so many other teams are regularly taking advantage of these situations, and United are unable to do so. Diogo Dalot attempted long throw-ins against Brentford but there was no success. The Reds need to improve in many areas, including at set-pieces.
When you consider the height of some players such as Benjamin Šeško and Harry Maguire, and the deliveries of Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo, United should be able to make more of an impact in these moments, and in the Premier League right now that is crucial.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.