Manchester United vs Brentford Summary
Manchester United came out 3-0 winners against Brentford in Ralf Rangnick’s final home match as interim boss. United put on a show in their final home league game, recording their biggest win of Rangnick’s reign at Old Trafford. Goals from Bruno Fernandes, Cristiano Ronaldo and Raphael Varane sealed an emphatic victory for the Red Devils. This encounter was also an opportunity to bid farewell to numerous Reds, who will be leaving in the summer.
The home side almost went behind within the first ten seconds. Christian Eriksen split the United defence open with a delightful pass, however Alex Telles recovered well. From that point on Rangnick’s men didn’t look back.
The Reds put in one of their best performances of the season and were particularly impressive in the final third. Ronaldo came close to opening the scoring, after latching on to Diogo Dalot’s superb pass. However, the Portuguese striker lost his footing and the chance went begging.
Minutes later and Dalot found Anthony Elanga with another brilliant through ball. Elanga got to the byline and sent in an inviting cross, which was met by Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese magnifico found the back of the net and put an end to his drought in front of goal.
Mata bids farewell
The Reds came close to extending their league following some excellent link up play between Ronaldo and Juan Mata. Mata put in a spectacular performance in what will be his last game in red and white. The Spaniard combined with Ronaldo before rifling an effort towards goal. His powerful effort went just wide of the target.
Although, it is likely Ronaldo stays for one more season, the striker put in yet another brilliant performance. The 37-year-old was sprinting around the pitch winning the ball for his side and then linking up play with some tremendous flicks and tricks. He was then almost rewarded for his hard work on the stroke of half time, when Mata found him with a tidy pass. United’s number seven found the back of the net with ease, however VAR intervened and the goal was ruled out for offside.
The visitors did have some chances with the majority of them coming from Eriksen. However, Ivan Toney was simply not at his clinical best and Brentford were unable to get themselves back in the game. Ronaldo finally got his goal after being brought down by Henry in the box, scoring his 18th goal of the season from the penalty spot.
Fernandes came close to adding to his tally, after getting on the receiving end of Nemanja Matic’s pass. However, United’s skipper on the night was unable to find the target. Matic also put in an impressive performance, after announcing that he will leave at the end of the season. Raphael Varane sealed the victory for the Red Devils late on with his first goal for the club.
Manchester United vs Brentford Player Ratings
David de Gea 7/10
Dealt with everything that was thrown his way, but still needs to improve with the ball at his feet. Made a couple of saves to deny Eriksen from range.
Diogo Dalot 7/10
An improved display from the fullback at both ends of the pitch. His passes over the top were extremely effective, however he needs to improve his final product when he gets to the byline. Hit the crossbar in the second half. An impressive display, which will have caught the attention of new boss Erik ten Hag.
Victor Lindelof 7/10
Made a crucial header to prevent the ball from falling to Eriksen. Kept his composure, even when Brentford grew into the game in the second half. Positive in possession.
Raphael Varane 7/10
Scored his first goal for the club with a poachers finish. Made one error in the first, when Toney got in front of him. But overall a good game from the Frenchman.
Alex Telles 7/10
Like Dalot, a significantly better performance compared to the last few weeks. Pushed high up the pitch and helped pin back Brentford’s wing-backs. Grabbed another assist from a corner.
Scott McTominay 6/10
Didn’t have that much of an impact on the game. Needs to get on the ball more and dictate things from the middle of the park. Made some key tackles and interceptions to stop the visitors from countering.
Nemanja Matic 7/10
A thorough and professional performance in his last game at Old Trafford. Kept the ball moving at a high tempo and was unlucky to not grab an assist in consecutive games. Applauded as he was taken off in the second half. A fitting farewell for the Serbian.
Anthony Elanga 6/10
Did extremely well to keep the ball in play and deliver a cross for the first goal. Was anonymous at times in the second half. A good display in his final home game in his breakthrough season. Rangnick will have a lot of positive things to say when he speaks to Ten Hag about the youngster.
Juan Mata 8/10
Rolled back the years in his final Old Trafford appearance. Effectively linked the midfield and attack in his natural number ten position. Should have been used more in the last few years. Had Brentford players chasing his shadow all evening. A true professional, who has shown nothing but respect for the club.
Bruno Fernandes 7/10
Was switched to the left flank to accommodate Mata. Combined well with the Spaniard and put in a much more disciplined performance. Got himself back amongst the goals and should have done better with his effort in the second half.
Cristiano Ronaldo 9/10
Yet another remarkable performance from United’s top scorer this season. Has been one of the only positives in an underwhelming Premier League campaign. Was tireless out of possession and was a threat in the final third. Denied a goal by a marginal offside in the first half, but got his goal from the penalty spot. Hopefully, the Old Trafford faithful get to watch this exceptional talent for one more season.
Subs
Fred 6/10
Made his comeback from injury and looks set to play a part in United’s last two games of the season.
Phil Jones 6/10
Got a warm reception in possibly his last appearance for the club. Another player who has remained respectful at all times.
Edison Cavani 6/10
Made his return after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Was cheered by the fans during the lap of honour, as he made his last appearance for the club.
Manager: Ralf Rangnick 7/10
A decent starting lineup, which allowed Mata and Matic to perform one more time under the floodlights at Old Trafford. Mata’s brilliant performance will raise to questions about why he hasn’t featured more this season. With nothing left to play for, the fans were expecting to see some of the youth prospects get some minutes. However, a comprehensive and attacking display, which has ended Rangnick’s reign on a high.
