Bryan Mbeumo’s strategic shift to a more central role was pivotal in Manchester United’s victory against their city rivals Manchester City on Saturday. Making his return to the team following participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, Mbeumo opened the scoring with an impressive shot that beat goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The Cameroonian forward, who has undergone a remarkable journey from his formative years at Troyes in France, has established himself as a vital player for Manchester United. Initially starting his career as a winger, Mbeumo’s potential to excel in a more central position was recognized early by his former coach Rui Almeida, who gave Mbeumo his first-team debut. Almeida recalled that it became clear that Mbeumo would thrive better in a more challenging role, stating, “I told him, to grow up, to go further as a player, to understand and to learn to play in the middle.”
Since moving to Manchester United from Brentford, where he primarily played behind the central striker under previous manager Ruben Amorim, Mbeumo has adapted quickly to his new environment, netting seven goals in just 17 Premier League appearances this season. His display against Manchester City raised intriguing possibilities about how new head coach Michael Carrick might maximize Mbeumo’s talents by deploying him as a central striker.
At Brentford, Mbeumo often oscillated between the wings and central positions, particularly against tougher opponents. While Benjamin Sesko was brought in by Amorim to take on the central striker role, Mbeumo’s performance in that position against City highlighted his capability to overshadow his competitors.
As he continues to excel, there are indications that Mbeumo’s development trajectory could lead him to embrace the role of a traditional number nine. This evolution would also facilitate the inclusion of fellow teammate Amad in a right-wing position, enhancing the team’s attacking dynamics.
Almeida, who now coaches Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi in Morocco, expressed immense pride in Mbeumo’s accomplishments, emphasizing his player’s relentless work ethic and eagerness to learn. “His mindset separated him from the other talents his age,” Almeida noted, attributing Mbeumo’s successful transition to his mental fortitude and commitment to growth.
With Mbeumo continuing to impress and evolve, the future looks promising not just for him, but for Manchester United’s attacking capabilities under Carrick’s guidance. The team’s adaptability and depth could pave the way for exciting prospects as the season unfolds.