Former Liverpool and England midfielder Jamie Redknapp has launched a scathing critique of Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho, pinpointing the young Argentine's defensive lapse as the catalyst for United's dramatic collapse against Brentford.
The Sky Sports pundit did not hold back in his post-match analysis, dissecting the moment he believes cost Erik ten Hag's side crucial points at the Gtech Community Stadium. United appeared to be heading for a narrow, if unconvincing, 1-0 victory until a stoppage-time implosion saw Brentford snatch an astonishing 2-1 win.
The Costly Defensive Error
Redknapp zeroed in on a specific incident in the second half where Garnacho, who had been substituted on, lost possession cheaply in his own half. Rather than tracking back immediately to rectify his mistake, the 19-year-old was seen remonstrating with the officials, leaving his team dangerously exposed.
'It's a schoolboy error,' Redknapp stated emphatically on air. 'You make a mistake, that's fine. But you cannot stand there with your arms out, complaining while the game goes on behind you. That lack of discipline and awareness is what ultimately leads to the pressure that costs your team.'
A Pattern of Poor Game Management
Redknapp's analysis suggests this was not an isolated incident but symptomatic of a wider issue within the United squad. He argued that such lapses in concentration and a failure to manage key moments of the game have become a recurring theme, undermining their progress under Ten Hag.
The pundit praised Brentford's relentless persistence but was clear that the defeat was largely self-inflicted by a United side that switched off at the vital moment. The result leaves United languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table, heaping pressure on the manager and his young squad.
While Garnacho's attacking flair is often celebrated, Redknapp's comments serve as a stark reminder that at the highest level, defensive responsibility is non-negotiable for every player on the pitch.
