A Glimmer of Hope for Red Devils
After a dismal 15th-place finish last season, Manchester United fans have every right to be skeptical. Yet, the early signs of the current campaign suggest a potential turnaround. The arrivals of Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford—despite interest from elite clubs—signal intent. Captain Bruno Fernandes’ decision to reject a lucrative Saudi move further fuels optimism. As Krikya analyzes, these moves could address United’s glaring attacking woes.
Solving United’s Goal-Scoring Crisis
The Numbers Don’t Lie
United’s 2023/24 season was a story of missed opportunities:
- 6th in chances created, but 2nd worst in shot conversion.
- 15 matches without a goal—only relegated sides fared worse.
- Underperformed xG by 9 goals, finishing with a meager 44 league goals.
Cunha and Mbeumo, however, were among the league’s top overperformers in xG:
- Mbeumo: Scored 7 more goals than expected (1st in the PL).
- Cunha: Ranked 3rd in xG overperformance.
Their composure in front of goal could finally bring the ruthlessness United lacked.
Tactical Dilemmas: Where Do They Fit?
Cunha vs. Fernandes: The No. 10 Battle
Amorim’s rigid 3-4-2-1 system demands a creative “left No. 10″—a role Cunha thrived in at Wolves under Vitor Pereira (5 goals in 7 games). But Bruno Fernandes has dominated that position at United.
Expert Insight: “Fernandes might drop deeper, but Amorim’s system historically relies on the No. 10 as the attacking engine—like Pedro Gonçalves at Sporting,” says Krikya tactical analyst, James Cooper.
Mbeumo vs. Amad: The Right-Side Conundrum
Mbeumo’s preference for the right-sided role puts him in direct competition with Amad Diallo, who shone in the Manchester derby. Amorim could:
- Rotate them to manage workload.
- Shift Amad to wing-back, a role he’s excelled in (4 assists in 4 games).
Key Stat: Only Mohamed Salah contributed more decisive goals/assists than Mbeumo last season.
The Striker Question Lingers
While Cunha and Mbeumo can play centrally, neither is a natural No. 9. Rasmus Højlund’s struggles (fewest shots among PL forwards) mean United still need a focal point.
Rumors: Links to Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal-bound) and Benjamin Sesko suggest Amorim isn’t done yet.
Conclusion: A Foundation for Progress
United’s early window activity is promising, but challenges remain:
- Integrating new signings without disrupting Fernandes’ influence.
- Addressing wing-back deficiencies—a critical component in Amorim’s system.
- Securing a striker to complete the puzzle.
For now, Krikya believes Cunha and Mbeumo offer hope—but the rebuild is far from over.
What’s your take? Can Amorim turn United around? Share your thoughts below!
Bryan Mbeumo’s knack for clutch goals could make him a fan favorite at Old Trafford.
