One performance from a Manchester United star did not go unnoticed as he put in a stunning 8/10 Premier League display against Brentford.
Manchester United slumped to a record 16th Premier League defeat of the season on Sunday afternoon, as Rúben Amorim’s side were edged out 4-3 by Brentford in a chaotic encounter at the Gtech Community Stadium.
The hosts made a lively start, immediately putting goalkeeper Altay Bayındır under pressure. But it was United who drew first blood, with Mason Mount finishing a fluid move involving Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
Brentford responded quickly, drawing level when Mikkel Damsgaard’s strike deflected off Luke Shaw and into the net. Kevin Schade then nodded in at the back post to put the Bees 2-1 up before the break.
After half-time, Amad and Leny Yoro replaced Shaw and Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu, yet Brentford continued to dominate. Schade grabbed his second from a Bryan Mbeumo cross, and Yoane Wissa added a fourth moments later to leave United reeling.
Despite the setback, Amorim’s youthful side fought back late on—Garnacho curled in a brilliant effort from range, and Amad rifled home in stoppage time—but the damage was already done, and Brentford held on to seal the win.
Garnacho stuns commentator vs Brentford
While United will no doubt be reeling from yet another loss this season, Garnacho can hold his head up high after a fantastic performance on the afternoon, earning an 8/10 on Cain Smith’s player ratings.
Garnacho’s highlight of the match was his stunning strike to score United’s second in West London, to which former Southampton defender Francis Benali took the time to praise his effort.
“Wow. Alejandro Garnacho crafted it all himself,” Benali, who was present at the G-Tech Stadium, said on BBC Radio Sports Extra.
“He played a lovely one-two with Christian Eriksen. Cutting inside, running parallel with the 18-yard box and then he wrapped his foot around it.”
Garnacho’s availability becoming a real asset
A lot has been made of Garnacho’s campaign, especially under Amorim, with it looking at points like the winger does not fit into what the head coach wants.
However, he has played in more ties than anyone else this season, as his selection against Brentford was his 54th this season and 15th start in his last 16 games.
Garnacho has 21 goal involvements this season and is the only other player besides Bruno Fernandes to hit double figures for both goals and assists, which is commendable for a 20-year-old to hit during such a turbulent time at the club.
Although he still needs room to improve his decision making and final ball at times, his performance against Brentford was one of a player who is starting to understand his new role under the head coach, and his continued availability despite the number of ties he’s played in the last six months is a testament to his fitness and growing abilities.
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