Ole Gunnar Solskjaer blamed the ball as Manchester United salvaged a draw thanks to Anthony Martial's equaliser.
Martial's first-half strike gave United a valuable away goal and the edge in the last 32 tie ahead of next week's return second leg at Old Trafford.
But Solskjaer claimed the Molten Europa League ball did United few favours in the driving rain and freezing winds against the Belgian league leaders.
“It was a difficult game against a well-organised team in difficult conditions,” said Solskjaer.
“I don't think it was one of the best games, we were a bit sloppy, concentration-wise, and the conditions, with the pitch and ball, made the conditions hard.
“The ball is different and difficult to play with, but it's the same for the two teams. It's light – you should get one and try it.
“We got a draw, a score draw, so they've got to come to Old Trafford and score, and if they need to get a draw, then they need to score more than one.”
Bruges coach Philippe Clement said: “We get the balls from UEFA, so it's not our ball. In the Europa League games it's the same balls, so I don't see a problem with that.”
Bruges took the lead in the 15th minute, a mistake from United keeper Sergio Romero allowing Dennis to lob him for the opener.
But Martial got United back on level terms in the 36th minute with his 14th goal of the season, giving Solskjaer's side the upper hand ahead of next week.
Bruges coach Clement felt Romero should have been sent off for a two-footed challenge on Dennis in the fourth minute during a goalmouth scramble.
“For me it’s a clear penalty if I see the images and in some countries it’s a red card,” said Clement.
“If you go with two feet forward against the leg of somebody, it’s a red card.
“All the circumstances need to go your way if you’re going to beat United and tonight we didn’t get that.”
