Amad and Bryan Mbeumo have emerged as pivotal figures in Manchester United’s squad, and their performances during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have highlighted their potential to take their game to new heights. Under manager Ruben Amorim, the duo has forged a formidable partnership on the right flank, transforming the way United approaches their attacking play.
Amorim’s tactical system uniquely accommodates both players, enabling them to co-exist without competing for the same position — a situation that would arise in a traditional back-four setup. Instead, Mbeumo operates as a right-sided No. 10, while Amad plays as the wing-back behind him. Their strategic use of positioning, particularly given that both players are left-footed, allows them to confuse opponents through underlapping runs while maintaining a significant attacking threat.
The AFCON has underscored the effectiveness of this partnership, with Amad showcasing his abilities as a dynamic right-winger and Mbeumo playing a creative role in the midfield. The challenge for Amorim lies in further optimizing their contributions without compromising the team’s defensive integrity. His willingness to make tactical adjustments has already been apparent during matches, notably in a recent game against Bournemouth, where Amad was freed from defensive duties, allowing United to create considerable problems for their opponents.
By implementing a more fluid structure, Amorim can maximize the talents of both Amad and Mbeumo, creating a formation that maintains defensive solidity while unleashing their attacking potential. This adjustment not only enhances their play but also opens the door for United to pursue a more athletic defensive midfielder, such as Elliot Anderson, who can effectively link the attack and defense.
As the team continues to refine their tactical approach, the hope is that Amad and Mbeumo will consistently perform at their best, providing Manchester United with a powerful attacking force capable of competing at the highest levels.