Manchester City face Brentford later today as the Premier League returns after the international break. The match at the Etihad Stadium is the first of a hectic schedule that lies ahead for Pep Guardiola’s side. But if history is any guide then Thomas Frank’s side will pose a tricky test for the world champions.
Brentford have had an impressive start to the new season. They sit 6th in the Premier League table after winning two of their first three games of the season. Their only defeat this season was a 2-nil defeat at Anfield to Liverpool. What stands out about Brentford’s play is their strength at the back and their ever-present threat on the counter. Alongside their threat from set pieces, those have long been strengths of Thomas Frank’s side.
With Bryan Mbuemo and Yvone Wissa up front, the Bees pose a potent threat on the break. Their pace is well-suited for the way that Brentford play. It is also a threat that Manchester City must be aware of to ensure they maintain their perfect start to the new season. They are also strong in midfield which helps them form a solid defensive foundation with their defence. They defend well as a team which plays into their threat on the counter. Thomas Frank has worked wonders with Brentford since guiding them back to the Premier League. His team is hard-working and plays in his image. That makes them a tough opponent for anyone in the Premier League.
Pep Guardiola knows a tricky test awaits his team at the Etihad.
Speaking during his pre-game press conference yesterday Pep Guardiola knows a tough match awaits his team. He knows his team are always pushed by the Bees. Guardiola told the media: “I don’t remember against Thomas Frank – a person I admire unbelievably – an easy game against Brentford. Since they’ve been promoted I don’t remember it. Always it’s been tough here and there. They’ve changed their shape a little bit and I had the feeling they play a little more in a style like when they were in the Championship.”
To further emphasize the fact that Brentford will pose a tricky test for his team Pep Guardiola was reminded that the Bees were the last team to beat Manchester City at the Etihad. They beat City 2-1 in November 2022 which was the last time the champions were beaten at home in all competitions. When reminded of that fact he said: “So the last time we lost here was against Brentford. You should have avoided [mentioning] that [statistic]. It shows how good we have done it if, for nearly two years, we haven’t lost. That’s good.”
A tricky test awaits Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium later today. They will face a well organised Brentford side who won’t be afraid to take the champions on in their own way. The champions will need to be at their best to ensure they maintain their perfect start to the Premier League season.
Esteemed Kompany host Steven Mcinerney is joined by a special guest to look at what Brentford will bring to the Etihad today in the video below.
