Rio Ferdinand's Verdict on United's Standout Performer
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has delivered a glowing assessment of summer signing Bryan Mbeumo, describing the winger's impact this season as a 'joke'. The Cameroon international has made an immediate impression at Old Trafford since his £71 million transfer from Brentford in July.
Ferdinand made these remarks on his popular YouTube podcast when asked to identify the most crucial players in Manchester United's current squad. He placed the 26-year-old forward in an elite group of three performers who have been instrumental in the team's recent resurgence.
Mbeumo's Immediate Impact at Old Trafford
The statistics certainly support Ferdinand's enthusiasm. In his first 12 appearances across all competitions under manager Ruben Amorim, Mbeumo has contributed six goals and one assist. His productivity in the Premier League has been particularly notable, with five of those goals coming in the top flight.
United's form has notably improved with Mbeumo in the side, remaining unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches. This positive run has lifted the team to seventh in the table as they prepare to face Everton following the international break on November 24.
Ferdinand elaborated on his 'joke' comment, explaining: 'He's really stepped in there and become a mainstay. He's someone who can give you two or three seconds on the ball to relieve pressure. He can score important goals and create chances.'
Complete Winger Potential and Other Key Players
The former England defender referenced Brentford manager Thomas Frank's previous comments about Mbeumo developing into a 'complete winger'. Ferdinand believes this transformation is well underway, stating: 'I think by the end of this season, he'll be one of the most complete wingers in the Premier League because he can do everything. He just needs to consistently do it in a United shirt.'
Ferdinand didn't stop at praising Mbeumo alone. He also highlighted the significant contributions of centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, describing him as United's 'best defender this season' and praising his recent last-minute goal against Tottenham. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens completed Ferdinand's trio of most important players, with the pundit noting the renewed trust throughout the squad in their last line of defence.
This sentiment about United's improved prospects is shared by other football experts. Gary Neville told Sky Sports that based on their current five-game unbeaten streak, 'They should be thinking around [the] top four, they really should, because there's no one grabbing it at this moment.'
As the international break concludes, all eyes will be on whether Mbeumo can maintain his exceptional start and help propel Manchester United toward their Champions League qualification ambitions.
