Wayne Rooney has admitted that Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo is proving him wrong at Old Trafford this season, following the Red Devils’ victory over Liverpool.
Mbeumo joined Manchester United in the summer transfer window for £71m, arriving from Premier League side Brentford.
Because of that hefty price tag, the Cameroonian forward arrived with plenty of pressure to deliver immediately and avoid the intense scrutiny that comes with playing for United.
As United beat Liverpool, Mbeumo scored his second goal of the Premier League campaign – and, as he has been all season, he was impressive throughout.
Wayne Rooney on Bryan Mbeumo
Wayne Rooney, who initially had doubts about the signing, now admits he owes Mbeumo an apology. The Manchester United legend revealed he “was a bit sceptical” when the forward arrived, but says the 26-year-old is now proving him wrong.
Rooney said: “I’ll be honest, I was a bit sceptical when Manchester United signed him. I didn’t know whether he had the ability to come in and play for United. But he’s proved me wrong – I think he’s been a great addition to the team and by far United’s best player of the season.
“Whatever he does now in a United shirt, it doesn’t really matter, does it? Because he scored against Liverpool!
“But you know what, the thing is, when you’ve got a player with that level of tenacity – that never-say-die attitude – who runs after loose balls, keeps going, and does what you need from a Manchester United player… that should be the absolute bare minimum. Running around and showing that you care should be the least you expect.
“And he does that in abundance. Plus, he’s got real quality as well. You saw last season with the number of assists and goals he got, and now he’s starting to put numbers on the board for United again. I think he’s going to be a fan favourite very soon.”
Mbeumo scored 20 Premier League goals last season for Brentford, so he’s a little off that tally so far. However, with Manchester United’s fixtures looking more favourable in the coming weeks, the 26-year-old could easily add to his total.
Rooney also praises Harry Maguire and Ruben Amorim
The other goalscorer on the day was Harry Maguire – and Rooney also had high praise for both the England defender and United boss Ruben Amorim, who he felt got his tactics “spot on.”
Rooney said: “I think bringing Harry Maguire in – I don’t know whether that was because of injury or necessity – but I said a few weeks ago that he’s such an important player for Manchester United.
“I know he got the winning goal, but his leadership qualities and experience, especially at Anfield, were massive. It was 100% the right decision. A huge call from the manager, and tactically, I thought Manchester United were spot on today.”
Manchester United’s heroes on the day delivered exactly what Amorim needed after a difficult start to the season – and the manager will be thankful to both.
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