Bryan Mbeumo's Manchester United Debut: Breaking Down His Performance Against Everton
Manchester United's summer acquisition Bryan Mbeumo made his eagerly awaited first appearance on Sunday versus Everton at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta during the Premier League Summer Series.
Mbeumo started the match alongside Bruno Fernandes as an attacking midfielder in Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation. The Cameroonian frequently applied high pressure up the field whenever Everton found themselves trapped in their defensive third.
Mbeumo connected well during a counter-attacking move that almost produced the opening goal within five minutes of kickoff. Matheus Cunha failed to beat Jordan Pickford from his chosen angle, but it provided an early glimpse of what the ex-Brentford player can offer in transitional play. Mbeumo and Cunha also switched positions periodically to occupy crucial areas both with and without the ball.
The 25-year-old flourished last campaign for Brentford operating on the right wing across various tactical setups, although he was occupying central spaces and drifting left against the Toffees. As the first half progressed, supporters witnessed Mbeumo dropping deeper to assist in build-up play similar to Fernandes. However, this may have been more due to the Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte partnership finding it difficult to dominate the midfield battle.
His first significant contribution occurred in the 18th minute when he threaded a pass between the lines to Amad Diallo. The young talent earned a spot-kick against James Tarkowski which Fernandes converted past Jordan Pickford.
Mbeumo also contributed to several set-piece situations, nearly surprising Jordan Pickford in the 27th minute from the penalty area's edge. He had an even clearer opportunity to find the net a minute afterward when Pickford produced a double stop to thwart both Fernandes and the Cameroonian. The overlapping speed of both Mbeumo and Diallo appeared threatening in the attacking phase during the opening period as the former's abilities were fully showcased in the first 45 minutes. Only a goal was absent from his performance.
Amorim emphasized in his interval discussion that while there were attacking moments for all three forwards, they were merely isolated instances. He desired more sustained possession and dominance from his team across different phases of play.
Mbeumo's first outing concluded at the beginning of the second period when he was replaced by Patrick Dorgu. In summary, it provided a preview of what lies ahead for Mbeumo this campaign. The dynamic forward could be utilized in more advanced positions in upcoming matches considering the alternatives Amorim possesses in his roster.
The Cameroonian might receive another opportunity in preseason against Fiorentina before Man Utd commence their campaign against Arsenal.