Brentford extended Manchester United’s misery with a 3-1 victory on Saturday at the Gtech Community Stadium, recording back-to-back league wins over the Red Devils for the first time since 1937.
The result deepened the uncertainty surrounding United manager Ruben Amorim, whose side has now suffered four defeats this season.
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The hosts stunned United with a blistering start.
Igor Thiago struck twice inside the opening 20 minutes, first lashing home Jordan Henderson’s lofted pass with a clean half-volley before scrambling in a second after Kevin Schade’s driving run unsettled the defence.
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United briefly rallied when Benjamin Sesko pulled one back before the half-hour, scoring his first goal for the club, but they rarely looked in control.
Brentford’s energy and discipline ensured their lead never looked fragile, with two Nigerians playing influential roles.
Right-back Michael Kayode, starting his sixth consecutive Premier League match, was tireless down the flank.
The 21-year-old, born in Italy to Nigerian parents, repeatedly drove forward, used his long throws to test United’s back line, and won more duels (seven) and tackles (three) than any other Brentford player.
His dynamism on the right pinned United back and gave the Bees an extra dimension in attack.
In midfield, Super Eagles star Frank Onyeka entered late in the game to help secure the win. Introduced in the 81st minute, he provided energy and composure, ensuring Brentford saw off United’s attempted fightback.
His intervention proved timely, as Mathias Jensen sealed the result with a stoppage-time strike that sent the home fans into raptures.
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United’s frustrations were compounded when Bruno Fernandes saw a second-half penalty brilliantly saved by Caoimhín Kelleher, who has now stopped four of seven spot-kicks he has faced in the Premier League.
The defeat leaves Amorim under mounting pressure, with United stuck in mid-table and winless in consecutive league games since the start of last season.
By contrast, Brentford’s victory lifted them to 11th, with Kayode and Onyeka both underlining their growing importance to Keith Andrews’ side.
