Mbeumo vs Cunha: The ideal pair for Ruben Amorim to revive MU

The Bryan Mbeumo deal has finally been completed, allowing Ruben Amorim to combine with Matheus Cunha to form a pair to revive MU.

Key factors for 3-4-2-1

MU is entering a new chapter under the leadership of coach Ruben Amorim, who is famous for his modern football philosophy, high pressing and flexible 3-4-2-1 tactical formation.

In their squad rebuilding plan for the 2025/26 season, the Red Devils have two important new recruits, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha - who have just had an explosive season in the Premier League.

Mbeumo fulfilled his dream of joining MU. Photo: Imago

In the 2024/25 season, Bryan Mbeumo scored 20 goals for Brentford, while Matheus Cunha scored 15 goals for Wolves.

Those are promising numbers, a dream for Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim when looking at the MU attack.

Now, when combined under the roof of Old Trafford, the duo is expected to form a new trident, promising to help the team revive after many years of uncertainty.

The 3-4-2-1 formation is Ruben Amorim's signature tactic, which he brought from Sporting to MU.

This system operates with 3 central defenders, two mobile wingers (playing the role of defenders or midfielders depending on the tempo of the match), 2 central midfielders playing a role, especially a pair of strikers playing behind the striker.

In that model, Mbeumo and Cunha are expected to be two “false 10s” – those who play creative, penetrating and direct scoring roles from the second line.

The strength of this system is its flexibility in attack, as all three players above can interchange positions and exploit space.

The Mbeumo – Cunha combination

Mbeumo was one of the fastest rising stars in the Premier League last season, emerging from the shadow of Ivan Toney. He impressed with his intelligent movement, delicate ball handling and impressive burst of speed.

The Cameroon international not only operates well on the right flank but also tends to move inside to combine or finish like a true striker.

Cunha offers Ruben Amorim many solutions. Photo: Alamy

In Amorim's scheme, Mbeumo will be the one to exploit the space between the opposition full-back and centre-back, while coordinating with the right wing-back – possibly Amad Diallo (or Noussair Mazraoui).

Mbeumo's direct style of play, two-footed finishing and ability to press from distance are the ideal fit for Ruben Amorim's footballing philosophy.

Similarly, Cunha is not a classic centre-forward, but a versatile player – a hybrid between a “number 9” and a “number 10”, or purely a left-forward.

Last season, Cunha was instrumental in helping Wolves rise and stay up. He is capable of dribbling at high speed, moving wide, coordinating well in groups and pressing tirelessly.

Cunha can play as the highest striker or drop back behind another striker.

In both cases, the Brazilian used his cunning and spatial awareness to link up play, wall up or penetrate the penalty area at the right time.

Need more recruits

The combination of Mbeumo and Cunha promises to create an attack rich in speed, flexibility and high damage.

Both are the model of modern attacking players: know how to press, move intelligently without the ball, coordinate well in groups and especially can decide the match by themselves.

Ruben Amorim needs more midfielders and strikers. England: MUFC

In transition situations, Mbeumo will move up to occupy the space, while Cunha can be the one to hold the ball, initiate and choose the time to enter the penalty area.

On the contrary, when pressed, they can coordinate 1-2 in a narrow area to break down the opponent's defense system - something MU has lacked for many years.

All of this is just theory. For this duo to maximize their potential, MU also needs to build an effective support system. At least add two more contracts.

First, MU needs a striker who can compete, create walls and finish with one touch. Benjamin Sesko is expected to join Old Trafford.

Second, a midfielder who can hold the tempo and distribute the ball effectively. Casemiro is not getting any younger, while Kobbie Mainoo is a regret due to his sudden decline.

Ruben Amorim already has two “rockets”, now he needs more launchers.

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/mbeumo-vs-cunha-doi-canh-giup-ruben-amorim-hoi-sinh-mu-2423725.html