Brentford forced Erik ten Hag to throw away his tactical blueprint – so what is Man Utd’s style of play now?

**Manchester United’s Journey: From Defeat to Reshaping Tactics**

As Manchester United prepares to return to Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium, memories of one of their most devastating defeats linger, marking a pivotal moment in their tactical evolution.

For Erik ten Hag, the sight of the modern arena in west London invokes harrowing memories. The shock 4-0 drubbing by Thomas Frank’s side last season left an indelible mark on the Dutchman and the club as a whole. It was a result that swiftly prompted a radical rethink in United’s approach.

Despite dominating possession in their visit to Brentford, holding 66 percent of the ball, United fell victim to their opponents’ relentless pressure and clinical counter-attacks. Individual mistakes compounded their downfall, highlighting glaring vulnerabilities in their defensive structure.

The defeat prompted immediate action from Ten Hag, who canceled the players’ day off and led them on a grueling 14km run, symbolizing the gap in distance covered compared to Brentford during the match. Additionally, the club made significant transfers, signaling a shift in strategy and a departure from Ten Hag’s initial vision of attractive, possession-based football.

Subsequently, United adopted a more reactive and direct style of play, reminiscent of previous managers’ approaches. Despite initial skepticism, this tactical shift yielded positive results, with victories against formidable opponents like Liverpool, Southampton, Leicester, and Arsenal.

The arrival of goalkeeper Andre Onana from Ajax was anticipated to facilitate a return to possession-focused football. However, the transition has been gradual, with United continuing to prioritize a direct approach. Onana’s distribution skills have been underutilized due to defensive hesitancy in playing out from the back.

Ten Hag’s candid acknowledgment of United’s distinct style, divergent from his tenure at Ajax, reflects a pragmatic adaptation to the club’s DNA. While fans may have harbored hopes of a return to expansive football, Ten Hag’s emphasis on directness aligns with United’s historical preference for quick wing play and counter-attacking prowess.

Despite criticisms and challenges, United’s current position in the table and progress in cup competitions underscore the effectiveness of Ten Hag’s approach. The team’s resilience and star quality, embodied by players like Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund, offer glimpses of success within the redefined tactical framework.

As United embarks on the final stretch of the season, Saturday’s encounter with Brentford serves as a poignant reminder of their transformative journey. Ten Hag’s resilience and willingness to adapt mark a new chapter in United’s pursuit of glory, with each match offering an opportunity to validate their evolving style and aspirations.