Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo is facing increased scrutiny at Manchester United after a noticeable drop in form, following what had been a promising start to life at Old Trafford.
Signed last summer for a reported £71 million, Mbeumo arrived with high expectations after a prolific spell at Brentford FC, where he scored 20 league goals in his final season.
Early signs suggested United’s investment was justified, as the forward quickly became a key figure in the team’s attack.
Mbeumo scored six goals within his first four months, including a crucial strike in a historic win at Anfield and a double against Brighton & Hove Albion.
His performances earned widespread praise, with some observers describing him as one of the signings of the season at that stage.
However, the momentum has since stalled.
The 26-year-old has not scored since a goal against Tottenham Hotspur on 7 February.
He has also failed to register either a goal or an assist in his last six appearances, raising questions about his current role and effectiveness within the team.
Despite still leading United’s Premier League scoring chart with nine goals this season, Mbeumo’s recent struggles have become increasingly evident.
In several matches, his attacking output has been limited, including games where he failed to register a single shot on target.
A particularly difficult performance came in a 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United, where he missed a clear opportunity. S
imilar issues followed in matches against AFC Bournemouth and Chelsea FC, where his influence in front of goal remained minimal.
The dip in form coincides with a period of change at the club.
Mbeumo’s progress was interrupted by his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, and upon his return, he had to adapt to a new managerial setup under Michael Carrick following the departure of Ruben Amorim.
Under Carrick, Mbeumo has been deployed in multiple attacking roles, alternating between centre-forward and wide positions.
This tactical shift appears to have affected his consistency and rhythm.
Competition for places has also intensified.
Forward Benjamin Šeško has taken advantage of the situation, scoring four goals since Mbeumo’s last, despite fewer minutes on the pitch.
As United prepare to face his former side Brentford, attention will once again focus on Mbeumo’s response.
The upcoming fixtures are likely to be decisive in determining whether he can rediscover his early-season form.
For now, the situation reflects both the promise and the pressure that come with playing at one of football’s biggest clubs.
While it may be too early to label his season a disappointment, the current run underlines the demand for consistency at the highest level.
