Analysis of why Manchester United signed Mbeumo

Why did Manchester United spend 82 million euros to sign Mbeumo? Exploring the "Little Bee" winger's Red Devils' magic

A few hours ago, a big transfer news ignited the Premier League - Manchester United recruited Brian Mbeumo at a sky-high price of up to 82 million euros, and this deal also became the Red Devils' second largest signing this summer. What exactly is the reason that makes this 25-year-old Cameroon winger so persistent and wants to win it at all costs?

Mbeumo eventually signed a five-year contract with Old Trafford. Even without additional terms, his transfer fee is already seventh highest in Manchester United's history, and also set a new record for Brentford's team history transfer income - almost twice the previous amount of Ivan Tony's transfer to Al Ailly.

Although Mbeumo's market value is 55 million euros and has been chased by Premier League giants such as Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle, the transfer fee paid by Manchester United in the end is much higher than market expectations. This undoubtedly demonstrates the club's high recognition and determination to win him.

The reason why Mbeumo has become one of the hottest wingers in the Premier League is first due to his comprehensive technical ability and low-key and diligent professional attitude. From the Troyes period in Ligue 2 and Ligue 1 to the Championship, to Brentford in the Premier League, no matter what environment he is in, he can always adapt quickly and continue to make progress.

For a newly promoted team, whether players can adapt to the fast pace and high intensity of the Premier League is always a huge question. However, Mbeumo dispelled all doubts with his actual performance. Since his Premier League debut against Arsenal in August 2021, he has played in 136 games for Brentford, contributing 42 goals and 30 assists. Last season, he performed particularly well at the start, scoring 7 goals and 3 assists in the first 15 games, but unfortunately his condition was affected by an ankle injury.

From last season to present, Mbeumo has averaged 0.46 goals in the Premier League, which is impressive, second only to Salah (0.67), Cole Palmer (0.52) and Oris (0.53). Especially in the 2023/24 season, when core forward Tony was absent due to suspension, Mbeumo resolutely carried the banner of Brentford and became the absolute core of the team.

What is even more amazing is that his performance when Tony is not on the court is far better than when the two are on the court at the same time:

69 times in the same game with Tony: Only 8 goals and 9 assists (0.12 goals per game + 0.13 assists per game)

Tony missed 64 times: 32 goals and 17 assists per game (0.50 goals per game + 0.27 assists per game)

This set of data clearly shows that when Mbeumo has more ball rights and tactical status, he can show stronger offensive threats and goal-scoring abilities.

Mbeumo is best at the right. With his excellent left footing skills, he can cut in and shoot in and assist accurately, which allows him to adapt to a variety of tactical formations flexibly. According to analysis, he is likely to play a key role in Manchester United coach Amorin's three-forward system, playing the "right center" or "No. 10 right version", forming a perfect offensive response to new player Mattus Cunia.

In addition, his arrival also brings more possibilities to Manchester United's tactical deployment, and may even allow young player Amad Diallo to return to the right-back position, thereby freeing more tactical space and offensive firepower.

Childhood dreams come true: Red Devils complex, loyalty points

Although Mbeumo has received close attention from many European giants, he always regards Manchester United as his first choice. He has been an absolute Red Devils fan since he was a child. When he was a child, he dreamed of wearing this red robe to fight against Old Trafford. Now, this dream has finally become a reality. This love and loyalty to the club has undoubtedly become one of the important reasons why Manchester United is willing to introduce him heavily.

With the successive joining of Mbeumo and Cunha, Manchester United's offensive line will usher in a new look. After turmoil and struggle last season, Manchester United's ability to successfully sign these two strong players in the fierce competition is undoubtedly a crucial step in its reconstruction process.