Brentford vs Manchester United, preview
This game comes with the teams seemingly headed in different directions. Brentford has been playing well of late, and in the league at least, Manchester United has struggled. However, given their strength in European competition, they may still end up with something to celebrate this season.
Recent history
Looking back at the Premier League history of Brentford and Manchester United, two things quickly come to mind. First is the 4-0 thrashing on a sunny August afternoon at the Gtech a few seasons ago. Second are the painful injury time goals at Old Trafford that twice sunk the Bees. The Bees are still pointless at Old Trafford in the Premier League era.
Last time out, Brentford took a 1-0 lead on an Ethan Pinnock goal right before half time. United equalised shortly after the break, then Danish international Rasmus Hojlund scored the winner on the hour.
Pre-game correlation
Brentford have been strong at home this season and have scored a lot of goals, scoring 3 or more on 7 separate occasions.
Pre-game prediction #1
Brentford has only lost at home once this season (vs Aston Villa) when they held their opponent to 1 goal or less. If Brentford holds United to one goal or less, the Bees will win the game.
Pre-game prediction #2
No new injuries have been reported, so Thomas Frank will have no choice but to stick with the same starting lineup that won at Nottingham Forest earlier in the week.
Other data stories
Strength in Europe has helped in England
United are undefeated in 13 Europa League games this season. In the Premier League, they've picked up 10 wins, half of which have come after winning in their previous Europa League match. Their least productive stretch of the PL season came during the 6 week break in the Europa League schedule on either side of Christmas.
This story was published on 03 May 2025. It was written by Dennis Flood. The image at the top of this story was generated using AI.
