If Manchester United are to be successful during the 2026/27 campaign, a lot will depend on the impact of the club’s attacking department in the months ahead.
Last season the Red Devils netted the third highest goal tally of any side in the Premier League – a stark contrast to the bottom-half finish the campaign prior.
Michael Carrick will be hoping those in the forward department can reach the next level in their careers this term, especially if the club are to challenge at the summit of the division.
However, Saturday’s defeat at Hull City was undoubtedly way below what’s expected of those within the frontline – with one player in particular struggling to emulate his form from last term.
Why Carrick is yet to get the best out of Mbeumo at Man United
As part of last summer’s recruitment drive, United completed the £71m addition of winger Bryan Mbeumo from fellow Premier League outfit, Brentford.
The Cameroonian had high expectations after netting 20 goals prior to his move, and undoubtedly match them, after scoring 11 top-flight goals in his debut campaign.
However, despite his efforts last season, it’s evident that Carrick is yet to get the best out of the 26-year-old – with his display on Saturday showcasing exactly that.
Mbeumo started off the right of the Red Devils’ attack, but only managed to complete two of his ten crosses – whilst also failing to complete any of his attempted dribbles.
|
Bryan Mbeumo – stats against Hull City |
|
|---|---|
|
Statistics |
Tally |
|
Minutes played |
90 |
|
Touches |
64 |
|
Pass accuracy |
86% |
|
Chances created |
1 |
|
Dribbles completed |
0 |
|
Cross success |
20% |
|
Ground duels won |
0 |
|
Aerials won |
33% |
Starting the forward off the right may have been a surprise to many, as the Cameroonian had been featuring in a centre-forward role during pre-season to cover for Benjamin Sesko.
He netted three goals in two matches against PSG and Atletico Madrid ahead of the 2026/27 campaign – arguably looking more comfortable in such a role.
There’s no denying Mbeumo is a handy option, but it’s now down to Carrick to get the best out of the big-money addition if he is to reach the next level this campaign.
How Man United can land the next Mbeumo this summer
Despite the question over where Mbeumo is best suited, there’s no denying his addition has been worth every penny and allowed the club to secure Champions League football for this season.
If the Red Devils are to reach the next level and fight for titles in the near future, similar additions of such calibre will certainly be needed – but they will likely cost a pretty penny.
However, that hasn’t deterred INEOS in their efforts to land added reinforcements this summer, which has seen a move for Ismaïla Sarr become a distinct possibility.
It’s been reported by TEAMtalk that United hold a genuine interest in landing the Crystal Palace attacker before the window closes on September 1st.
They claim Carrick’s men are keeping a close eye on the 28-year-old’s developments, after he stated his desire to leave Selhurst Park this window for a new challenge.
However, competition for his signature is fierce, as Galatasaray are also said to be keen on landing the Senegal star. If any of his suitors make an offer in the region of £50m, it is likely to be enough to convince Palace to sell.
On the face of it, such a fee may seem to be a hefty one for Sarr, but he’s a proven Premier League talent – and as we know, they always cost a premium figure.
He netted nine goals in just 28 league appearances last term, subsequently showcasing his phenomenal ability to deliver the goods within the attacking third of the pitch.
His underlying stats also make for excellent reading, with many of his figures showcasing why he can follow in Mbeumo’s footsteps in being a success after joining from a fellow top-flight outfit.
Sarr’s average of 0.4 goals per 90 in the Premier League last season placed him above any player at Old Trafford – also placing him above 85% of other players in his position across Europe.
Few teams were able to live with his direct nature and speed within attacking areas, which saw him draw an impressive tally of 1.7 fouls won per 90 last term.
Along with his goalscoring ability, Sarr also caught the eye with his chance creation ability, which saw him lay on 1.5 opportunities for his teammates per 90 in 2025/26.
His form has seen former players heap praise on him in recent times, with former Watford man Etienne Capoue suggesting back in 2020 that he could become “one of the best in the Premier League.” Well, six years on, that would appear to have come true.
£50m for a player entering the prime years of his career could prove to be an excellent deal as United look to mount a charge to reclaim Premier League glory in the years ahead.
Mbeumo’s move last summer is evidence of the immediate impact such signings can make, with INEOS desperately needing to work tirelessly to get a deal over the line.
