Michael Carrick is enjoying a dream start to Manchester United after replacing Ruben Amorim, but much has changed at Old Trafford since taking over the reins.
Michael Carrick is enjoying a dream start to life at Man United (Image: Getty Images)
Manager Michael Carrick has scrapped Ruben Amorim’s plans for manager Brian Mbeumo, just days after replacing the former Manchester United manager. The former midfielder was appointed as his replacement until the end of the season earlier this month.
Carrick got off to a dream start, winning his opening two games against Manchester City and Arsenal. One of his main success stories was signing Mbeumo in the summer.
The Cameroonian scored in both games against City and the Gunners, taking his tally to nine goals in a season in all competitions since joining from Premier League rivals Brentford. And despite Carrick’s form not having changed much since his arrival, the Middlesbrough manager appears to be taking a completely different approach when it comes to his demands on his forwards.
According to ESPN, Amorim was keen to capitalize on Mbeumo’s versatility and use him in various positions up front. But Carrick was more keen for the forward to play as a central option with a roaming license.
read more: Sir Jim Ratcliffe summons Michael Carrick after admitting Manchester United’s ‘mistake’read more: Liam Rosenior reveals Cole Palmer’s new stance on Manchester City transfer after private meeting
Follow Man United’s FB page! Keep up with the latest United news and more on our dedicated Facebook page
Amad and Patrick Dorg will be deployed on either flank, with Bruno Fernandes serving as provider. That plan may require some adjustments as Dorg is out for an extended period of time after sustaining an injury against Arsenal.
Asked earlier this month what was different under Carrick, Mbeumo said: “Everything is a little bit different. The training is different, the mentality is different. We know there is only one goal and one path to take and we have to do everything to achieve that.”
“Each manager has his own character and a different way of thinking, and the manager is a legend here as a player so of course he knows the club very well and everyone wants to do their best as well.”
Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has recently praised Mbeumo and his performances. “That’s exactly what I thought about the player against Arsenal, which is Mbeumo. I think he’s very smart in terms of movement.”
Brian Mbeumo is in great form after returning from AFCON (Image: Getty Images)
Who has been named Man United’s Player of the Season so far? Share your thoughts in the comments section below
“He has this flair in front of goal. He’s also very good in terms of assists. I love his work rate. I love the way he behaves on the pitch, both technically and mentally. But more importantly, I’ve always liked the way he moves, the way he connects with players.
“He brings something different up front. He’s not very physical, but in the meantime he gives everything on the pitch. But I love him because he’s very smart.
“When I saw Manchester United sign him in the last transfer window, I thought it was a great deal.”
Mbeumo will be looking to build on his recent fine form this weekend as United continue their push towards a top-four finish. The Red Devils host Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check it out whenever you like. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
Sky Sports Premier League and EFL package discounts
£49
£35
sky
Get the deal here
Sky has reduced the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 on their bill and offering more than 1,400 live matches from Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will broadcast at least 215 live Premier League matches next season, with an increase of up to 100 more.
