Manchester United vs Brentford | Mason Mount goal | Mount injury comeback | MU Europa League hopes | Premier League 2024/25 Matchweek 35

In a chaotic 4-3 loss to Brentford, Mason Mount finally reminded the Manchester United faithful why the club signed him in the summer of 2023. Though the Red Devils crumbled defensively, it was Mount’s energetic, intelligent performance — capped with a brilliantly taken goal — that stood out in a match otherwise defined by structural flaws and late drama.

The match, played at the Gtech Community Stadium, saw Manchester United suffer their 16th league defeat of the season — an unacceptable statistic for a club of their stature. However, amid the disappointment, Mount’s display offered manager Ruben Amorim a rare tactical and emotional positive.

Match Recap: Brentford 4-3 Manchester United

Manchester United started the match with several changes, including the decision to start Mason Mount for the first time in the Premier League since December 15, when he was injured against Manchester City.

The game itself was a goal-fest. Brentford opened the scoring and took full advantage of United’s disorganized defense, particularly from set-pieces and transitions. Despite being behind, United found moments of brilliance in attack. One of them came from Mount.

Mount scored United’s second goal, showcasing his excellent off-the-ball awareness and technical finishing. He latched onto a low cross from Alejandro Garnacho after a lovely pass from Kobbie Mainoo, allowing the ball to run across his body before firing it past Brentford keeper Mark Flekken.

Garnacho and Amad bring hope to MU.

But in typical 2024/25 fashion, United couldn’t hold firm. After fighting back to a 3-3 draw, a late Brentford winner sealed another heartbreaking loss — raising more questions about the team’s defensive setup and mental focus.

Mason Mount’s Individual Performance: Back with a Bang

Beyond the goal, Mount’s contributions were substantial:

  • 1 goal (his second for United, both vs Brentford)
  • 2 more shots on target, both from Garnacho assists
  • 83% pass accuracy (19/23)
  • 1 aerial duel won
  • 1 clearance, 1 interception, 2 successful tackles

What impressed most was Mount’s timing and positioning. Playing as a free-roaming midfielder in a three-man attack, he frequently drifted into dangerous spaces, drawing defenders and linking play.

This version of Mason Mount — fit, sharp, and decisive — was exactly what United had hoped for when they signed him from Chelsea for £55 million. After multiple substitute appearances post-injury, Mount finally looks ready to be a first-team regular again.

Tactical Role Under Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim, known for tactical flexibility and high-press systems, seems to be preparing Mount to act as a box-to-box creator — someone who:

  • Presses high with intensity
  • Arrives late in the box
  • Links midfield and attack
  • Supports defensively when needed

Against Brentford, Mount was deployed in a hybrid No. 10/No. 8 role, complementing Bruno Fernandes while covering spaces left by advanced fullbacks. His work rate was evident, and despite being withdrawn after 57 minutes (likely to manage fitness), his impact was felt.

Amorim may have found a key piece to his midfield puzzle — a player who offers more verticality and movement than Eriksen and more technical control than McTominay.

The Bigger Picture: Mount’s Importance for the Europa League

Despite the loss, Manchester United still have a clear goal this season: win the UEFA Europa League. With the semifinal second leg against Athletic Bilbao looming, Mount’s form couldn’t have returned at a better time.

Mount himself acknowledged the stakes, stating:

“This is a massive part of the season. We’ve got a huge game on Thursday. It’s not about the scoreline — we go in with a 0-0 mindset and do what we have to.”

His leadership, experience, and adaptability will be crucial against Bilbao, particularly with Amorim rotating players heavily to manage fatigue across competitions.

In knockout football, players like Mount — who can press, create, and finish — often prove decisive. His experience in big games (Champions League, Euro 2020 Final, FA Cup finals) brings composure to a squad that’s still finding its identity under a new coach.

The State of MU After the Brentford Defeat

With this defeat, Manchester United remain outside the top four, increasing pressure to qualify for the Champions League via the Europa League. The team’s inconsistent league form (16 defeats so far) paints a worrying picture, but there are some bright spots:

  • Garnacho’s creativity
  • Mainoo’s maturity
  • Mount’s return to form
  • Amorim’s long-term tactical vision

The key lies in fixing defensive lapses while harnessing attacking talent. If Mount can stay fit and build chemistry with Bruno, Garnacho, and Højlund, the Red Devils could yet salvage their season.

Conclusion: Mason Mount’s Return Offers Hope Amid Chaos

In a season filled with injuries, underperformance, and upheaval, Mason Mount’s goal vs Brentford was more than just a statistic — it was a statement. The midfielder, often criticized for not delivering, is finally finding rhythm, just as Manchester United approach the decisive weeks of their campaign.

For fans, seeing Mount sprint, shoot, and celebrate in red is not just a relief — it’s a glimpse of a future midfield leader. With the Europa League semifinal approaching and the pressure mounting, Mason Mount could very well become the player to drive Manchester United toward redemption.