Man Utd Stars Shine and Struggle as Mbeumo's Debut Sparks Thrilling 2-2 Everton Stalemate

Manchester United settled for a 2–2 stalemate with Everton on Sunday, concluding the Premier League Summer Series with an underwhelming display following their impressive midweek performance.

Red Devils supporters had circled this fixture throughout the Summer Series after Ruben Amorim hinted at Bryan Mbeumo's first appearance. The Cameroonian indeed featured from the start at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, partnering Bruno Fernandes in the attacking midfield roles.

Jake O'Brien nearly opened the scoring early when an Everton set-piece left Altay Bayındır scrambling. The Irish defender struck the far upright in an early cautionary moment for United. Unlike their triumph over Bournemouth, the Red Devils found it more challenging to dictate proceedings. Leny Yoro and Amad Diallo appeared disconnected defensively at moments as Everton exploited that flank. Beto found the net in the 14th minute but was ruled offside, with the striker seemingly aware after outfoxing the Turkish goalkeeper.

Despite his initial struggles, Diallo earned a spot-kick in the 18th minute following an astute pass from Mbeumo. Fernandes stepped forward and confidently dispatched past Jordan Pickford for the opener. Everton stayed disciplined, adhering to their strategy while maintaining structure as they tested a vulnerable United defense and midfield. Twenty minutes following the breakthrough, Everton leveled through Iliman Ndiaye.

Mbeumo was withdrawn at halftime for Patrick Dorgu as Dalot moved to the right flank.

The first-half narrative persisted after the break as United's midfield, despite alterations, failed to dominate possession to Amorim's satisfaction.

United regained the advantage courtesy of Mason Mount's excellent pivot and strike that beat the helpless Pickford. A standout moment for a player seeking to rediscover his form. However, the lead lasted merely six minutes after a defensive catastrophe resulted in a peculiar own goal, with Diallo attempting to clear but his effort deflecting off Ayden Heaven into the net.

The encounter finished 2–2 as the Premier League Summer Series concluded. Amorim will be displeased with his team's fragmented display considering only one preseason fixture remains before the Premier League season begins.

Sports Illustrated's Manchester United player assessments from the contest below.

Man Utd Player Ratings vs. Everton (3-4-2-1)

GK: Altay Bayındır—5/10—The reserve keeper will be disappointed with his team's defensive work for Everton's first-half strike and the second-half own goal incident.

CB: Luke Shaw—5/10—Shaw appeared uncertain defensively at times, unusually given his excellent Bournemouth display.

CB: Matthijs de Ligt—6/10—De Ligt, similar to his defensive colleagues, showed vulnerability during the opening period.

CB: Leny Yoro—5/10—Supporters likely expected more following Yoro's previous outing. He and Diallo seemed disconnected defensively on occasions.

LWB: Diogo Dalot—5/10—Dalot featured on both defensive flanks but failed to make a significant impact in an overall disjointed team performance.

CM: Manuel Ugarte—5/10—Both Ugarte and Mainoo failed to establish midfield dominance throughout. A disappointing showing for both players with and without possession.

CM: Kobbie Mainoo—5/10—Mainoo was the initial midfielder withdrawn, struggling in his box-to-box duties.

RWB: Amad Diallo—5/10—Diallo was defensively fragile but impressive going forward. He bore responsibility for the equalizing own goal despite earning a first-half penalty.

AM: Bruno Fernandes—7/10—The skipper maintained his excellent preseason form with a penalty conversion and an assist for Mason Mount's strike.

AM: Bryan Mbeumo—6/10—Mbeumo showed promise in his Red Devils bow, connecting play effectively on several occasions. His delivery to Amad Diallo led to the penalty and opening goal.

ST: Matheus Cunha—6/10—Cunha appeared threatening at various moments but couldn't find the target. It remains to be seen how Amorim structures his attack for the final preseason encounter against Fiorentina.

Player of the Match: Bruno Fernandes