Mbeumo shines at Old Trafford, reflecting Manchester United s mistake in introducing Anthony that year

Bryan Mbeumo is quickly becoming the new favorite of Old Trafford, and his outstanding performance also increasingly highlights the failure of Manchester United's decision to introduce Anthony to tens of millions of pounds.

In Manchester United's 2-1 victory over Chelsea, although Mbeumo did not score, it became the real turning point of the game. He used a bold high-speed breakthrough, forcing Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to commit a foul outside the penalty area in just 5 minutes of the opening game and was sent off with a red card. From that moment on, the balance of the game completely turned to the Red Devils. This "tactical nuclear bomb"-like impact is exactly what Manchester United has been missing for many years - the explosive power that can tear the opponent's defense line and change the game trend in an instant.

What is more valuable is that Mbeumo brought far more than one foul. Every time he touches the ball, he is full of speed, vitality and confidence. This long-lost passion and energy makes Old Trafford boil again. He showed a direct, efficient, aggressive style of football—this is what fans have longed for.

Mbeumo and Anthony: A sharp contrast

Comparing Mbeumo and Anthony together, the gap is sad. Manchester United once spent more than £80 million to bring Anthony from Ajax, hoping that he would become the team's offensive core. However, the Brazilian player's answer was disappointing: fancy but inefficient dribbling, blind and non-threatening long shots, and bleak goals and assists. More than two seasons have passed, and he has never proved that he is worthy of this sky-high contract.

In contrast, Mbeumo, the player De joining, quickly brought immediate changes: tireless high-pressing, smart off-ball running, and most critically - the ability to create decisive influence at critical moments. One breakthrough and the entire game are something Anthony failed to do even if he appeared dozens of times.

Behind this is a profound lesson in Manchester United's transfer strategy: the club has been obsessed with chasing "fame" and "gimmicks", and ignores the fit between players and the team's tactical system. Anthony became a symbol of squandering money, and Mbeumo proves that sometimes what the team really needs is not a gorgeous label, but simple, direct and efficient execution.

From "The Unknown" to "Fan's Darling"

It is worth mentioning that Mbeumo won not only the game, but also the hearts of the fans. When he was substituted, Old Trafford fans stood up and ovated, as if he had been a meritorious player for many years. Coach Amorin also personally stepped forward to shake hands and stroked his head, openly affirming his core position in the new tactical system.

Anthony's presence in Old Trafford, by contrast. He could not inspire the fans' passion, nor could he make the audience stand up and cheer. And Mbeumo, after only a few months of playing, did what Anthony failed to achieve in two years - igniting the fire of hope in the hearts of fans.

Mbeumo's new Manchester United

Admittedly, the game against Chelsea was not perfect: after Maguire was replaced, Chelsea immediately used the space to win a goal by Charoba; Casemiro's red card also put the team in a passive position in the final stage. But the fans smiled when they left the court because they finally saw the long-lost picture - the football full of speed, energy and belief in winning in the first half.

And the catalyst for all this is Mbeumo. He not only improved the combat effectiveness of the front line, but also changed the way of playing in the whole team. A core player like Bruno Fernandez had to give up space for him and cooperate; new aid Seschko also gained more offensive space as a result. The entire team benefited from his presence.

Old Trafford this night sent a clear signal: Manchester United no longer needs another expensive "Anthony" decoration. What they need is a player like Mbewumo who is full of energy, good at seizing opportunities, and can turn the situation around instantly.