BREAKING NEWS: coming from Fabrizio Romano, “There is a different between playing to win and being hungry to win. i told them we are coming for the win to shut our critics up for once, and that’s what we did today” Erik ten Hag praises players on the performance against Brentford as they get their first win of the month. Manchester united trash Brentford to put them in their place.

Breaking News: “There Is a Difference Between Playing to Win and Being Hungry to Win” – Erik ten Hag Praises Manchester United After Resounding Victory Over Brentford

Fabrizio Romano reports that Erik ten Hag has passionately commended his players following Manchester United’s dominant win over Brentford, marking the club’s first victory of the month. The United manager’s post-match comments highlighted a team eager to respond to mounting criticism, with the 4-0 thrashing at Old Trafford sending a powerful message to doubters.

“There is a difference between playing to win and being hungry to win,” Ten Hag said, expressing satisfaction with the team’s determined display. “I told them we are coming for the win to shut our critics up for once, and that’s what we did today.” The Dutchman’s words conveyed a message of resilience and intent, as United showed glimpses of their old fighting spirit. The comprehensive victory has lifted spirits at the club after a turbulent period, during which the Red Devils had struggled to find consistency on the pitch.

The win was not just about securing three points but about restoring pride and quieting the growing discontent surrounding the team’s performances. United’s form had been a major talking point, with several pundits and fans questioning the squad’s desire and Ten Hag’s tactics following a series of underwhelming displays. Saturday’s win was, therefore, as much about silencing critics as it was about securing a much-needed confidence boost for the players and the manager alike.

United started the game with a palpable sense of urgency, attacking from the first whistle. Brentford, who had earned a reputation for being a stubborn and resilient team, were left chasing shadows for much of the contest. United’s forward line, led by Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, looked sharp and purposeful, consistently finding gaps in the Brentford defense. Rashford, in particular, appeared to be in a different gear, giving Brentford’s defenders a torrid time with his pace and directness.

Ten Hag’s decision to start Rasmus Højlund up front also paid dividends, as the Danish striker opened his Premier League account with a well-taken goal in the 25th minute. Højlund’s performance showcased his potential to be the focal point of United’s attack, holding up play well and linking effectively with his teammates. His goal was the culmination of a slick passing move that epitomized the attacking football Ten Hag has been striving to implement since his arrival.

The Dutch manager’s tactical tweaks proved crucial, with United maintaining a relentless press throughout the game, not allowing Brentford to settle. The midfield duo of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen provided the foundation for United’s fluidity going forward, winning the ball back swiftly and transitioning effectively into attack. Casemiro, whose performances had been under scrutiny, answered critics with a goal and an assist, underlining his importance to the squad.

The victory sparked jubilant scenes among the United faithful, who had been yearning for a performance that embodied the club’s traditional fighting spirit. The fans responded with raucous cheers, appreciating the team’s grit and quality on the day. With this win, Erik ten Hag’s men have not only claimed an essential three points but also taken a significant step towards rediscovering their form.

Though a single victory does not erase the challenges United have faced this season, the comprehensive nature of the win against Brentford could serve as a turning point. The squad now appears galvanized, and with key players returning from injuries, the future looks more promising for the Red Devils. As Ten Hag said, “We needed this, the players needed this, and the fans deserved this. Today, we showed what we can do when we are truly hungry to win.”
Erik ten Hag’s praise following Manchester United’s commanding 4-0 victory over Brentford highlights the team’s renewed determination and hunger for success. After a turbulent period of inconsistent performances, the Dutch manager was vocal about the difference between merely playing to win and being “hungry” to win. This emphatic response from the squad not only secured three points but also helped restore pride and calm growing criticism.

Ten Hag’s tactical adjustments, including starting Rasmus Højlund upfront, proved effective, with the Danish striker netting his first Premier League goal. United’s relentless pressing and sharp attacking play, led by Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, left Brentford unable to keep pace. Casemiro’s standout performance, with both a goal and an assist, further silenced doubts surrounding his recent form.

The win, which reignited the Old Trafford crowd, could mark a turning point for United as they seek to build momentum and push past the challenges of the season. Ten Hag emphasized the importance of this victory for both the players and the fans, stating that it demonstrated what the team is capable of when fully motivated. This result sends a strong message to critics while offering hope for a more consistent run of form.