Brentford vs Manchester United: Maguire's return won't solve MU's defensive problems

Brentford take on Manchester United in a rescheduled match on Matchday 17. Both clubs approach the meeting in a poor mood. Who will be able to make amends for their disappointing performance?

After beating Aston Villa 2-1, Brentford played poorly defensively in their next two EPL games and conceded a total of seven goals. First, there was an unfortunate away game against Southampton and a 1-4 defeat. Thomas Frank's side went against a weakened Liverpool without Salah and Mane. The Bees created no problems for the Merseyside side in a 0-3 defeat even with that factor. With 23 points, Brentford sit 14th in the English league table.

After beating Burnley 3-1, Manchester United's form slowed in the English Premier League. Ralf Rangnick's side took just one point in the next two games. First came a very weak performance at home against Wolverhampton and a 0-1 defeat. Next up was an away game against Aston Villa. The Red Devils looked decent in the first half. By the second half's midway point, United had a two-goal lead but failed to finish the game after Coutinho had taken the field. They conceded two goals and failed to win the tournament, 2-2. MU remain in seventh place with 32 points.

Brentford and Manchester United will play their first face-to-face encounter of the current EPL campaign. The Bees and Red Devils have met in 14 matches all-time. In terms of wins, United have a minimum advantage of 6-5.

Brentford return to their arena after two really weak away performances. I wouldn't be surprised if Thomas Frank's players play at number one. The EPL average sides are more active against teams like Manchester United because the Red Devils do not dictate their football in most encounters. United have big problems, the players claim in interviews that there is no conflict in the team, but we see quite the opposite in reality. United's attacking players have become greedy in the closing stages, leading to unrealised chances.

Since Rangnick's arrival, United have been scoring early goals more frequently, but now another problem has arisen: the club is not holding onto the lead and losing points, such as in the game with Aston Villa. In Birmingham, once again, the team's supporting area played poorly, and, consequently, open areas in the center of defence began to emerge. Maguire is likely to be back in the starting line-up, but after a minor injury, it is unknown what form the Manchester City captain is in. Maguire has already received plenty of criticism this season for his unwise decisions in important episodes.

With all the problematic factors at Manchester United's disposal, you can bet on Total Over goals. I believe that Brentford will take advantage of the visitors' misfires, but United's players themselves will also mark with productive action. Also, we can consider the line with a lot of bookings. There will be a lot of violations of the rules.

• Total Over (2.5) goals for 1.90;
• Total Over (4) yellow cards for 1.86;
• Both teams to score and Total Over (2.5) goals for 2.25.