Just a few days after taking over the hot seat at Manchester United, Michael Carrick broke the plan that Ruben Amorim had for Bryan Mbeumo. This former midfielder was appointed interim coach until the end of the season earlier this month.
Carrick had a dream start when he won both his debut matches against Manchester City and Arsenal. One of the biggest highlights under his leadership was the impressive form of newcomer Mbeumo.
The Cameroonian striker has scored against both Man City and Arsenal, bringing the total number of goals this season to 9 in all competitions since joining Brentford. Although his performance has not changed much when Carrick appeared, the interim coach's way of using Mbeumo is different.
According to British media, Amorim wants to exploit Mbeumo's versatility by arranging him to play in many different positions in attack. Conversely, Carrick prioritizes letting this striker operate more in the center, being given the right to move freely.
Amad and Patrick Dorgu are arranged to support on both wings, while Bruno Fernandes plays the role of conductor behind. However, that plan may have to be adjusted after Dorgu suffered an injury in the match against Arsenal and had to be sidelined for a long time.
When asked earlier this month about the differences under Carrick, Mbeumo shared: "Everything is a bit different. Training is different, spirit is different. We know we only have one goal and one path, so we have to do everything to achieve it.
Each coach has a different personality and mindset. Clearly, the coach understands the club very well because he is a legend here when he was a player, so everyone wants to try their best.
Former Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit also praised Mbeumo after his performance against Arsenal: "I see exactly what I think about this player, that is Mbeumo. In terms of movement, he is very intelligent.
He has good qualities in front of the goal, and is also very good at assisting. I like his fighting spirit and demeanor on the field, both technically and mentally. But more importantly, his movement and ability to connect with teammates at all times.
He brings something different to the front line. He doesn't have too strong physique, but in return he always dedicates himself wholeheartedly. I love him because he is very intelligent".
Mbeumo will aim to maintain impressive form this weekend, as Man United continues the top 4 race. "The Red Devils" will host Fulham at Old Trafford.
With 8 goals and 1 assist after 18 appearances in the Premier League, Mbeumo is possessing rare statistics with a newcomer at Old Trafford. In fact, since Bruno Fernandes arrived in January 2020 and immediately made his mark, Man United has not had any contracts that quickly integrated and scored regularly in big matches like the Cameroonian striker.
Mbeumo's brilliant form is clear evidence of the correctness in INEOS's transfer policy, when prioritizing experienced players in the Premier League.
The recruitment of faces who have been tested in the most rigorous league in England such as Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha is bringing immediate results, helping the "Red Devils" significantly shorten the time to assemble the squad.
