Man United 4-2 Brighton: Mbeumo, Cunha and the impact of Amorim
Man United extended their first three wins since February 2024 with a 4-2 victory over Brighton: Mbeumo scored a brace, Cunha found the net, and Ruben Amorim's 5-4-1 system worked seamlessly.
Old Trafford erupted after a 4-2 victory over Brighton – a result that marked Manchester United's first consecutive Premier League win since February 2024, and confirmed manager Ruben Amorim's rebuilding efforts. New signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha were the focal points: Mbeumo scored a brace (including the winning goal), while Cunha opened the scoring with a confident two-touch finish.
Key developments and pivotal moments
Against Brighton, United won not only with emotion but also with a clear structure. Cunha broke the deadlock with a neat finish in just two touches, relieving the psychological pressure of a new signing in the attack. In the remainder of the match, Mbeumo showed the qualities of a cool-headed striker with a brace, sealing the game with a goal to make it 4-2.
Ruben Amorim's hallmark: proactive structure, discipline off the ball.
The most noticeable change lies in the tactical framework. Amorim still maintains the long, direct passes to quickly move the ball forward, but the off-ball formation has been strengthened. United switched to a 5-4-1 when defending: the two number 10s, Mbeumo and Cunha, drop deeper, thickening the defensive block and shielding Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes. This is the solution to a long-standing weakness – the gaps in front of the defense and the fragility in the midfield.
This structure allowed United to defend more proactively, readily suffocating the midfield and transitioning forward as intended by Amorim. When in possession, the two "number 10s" acted as both a link and a spearhead behind the opposing defense; when they lost possession, they formed a defensive barrier, relieving pressure on the midfield.
Mbeumo and Cunha: two fundamental pieces for the attacking line.
Mbeumo is more than just a goalscorer. His neat first touch, ability to control the tempo of the attack, and link-up play help United maintain their tempo. His composure in decision-making in the final third is a major plus, especially in direct counter-attacks.
With Cunha, United have a "warrior-artist" striker: fierce in tackles but graceful in ball control. He can drop deep like a midfielder to fill gaps, but is also sharp enough to finish off a moment of genius himself. Both players not only handle the ball smoothly but also defend well in midfield, highlighting the qualities of the players around them.
Statistics and notable milestones
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Score | Man United 4-2 Brighton |
| Result string | Three consecutive wins in the Premier League – the first time since February 2024. |
| Outstanding player | Bryan Mbeumo (double, sealed 4-2); Matheus Cunha (scored with a two-touch finish) |
| Non-glossy structure | 5-4-1; Mbeumo and Cunha drop back to become two number 10s, supporting and shielding Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes. |
| Note | The National named Mbeumo and Cunha to their Team of the Week. |
Reaction: Voices from Legends
Wayne Rooney called Mbeumo "Manchester United's best signing this season," highlighting the energy, intensity, and hunger the team had been looking for. Regarding Cunha, Rooney said his first goal was incredibly significant psychologically; he is an unpredictable threat, capable of deciding matches.
On the 'Rest is Football' podcast, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards see the new signings as key to United's resurgence. Richards believes this is the first time the players have understood their role in Amorim's system, while Shearer believes the winning streak will reinforce confidence that this style of play can work smoothly.
NewspaperThe NationalBoth Mbeumo and Cunha were honored in the Team of the Week – a recognition of their immediate impact.
Impact and prospects
The victory against Brighton was a glimpse into how Amorim's project has hit its stride: a clear structure and the right personnel. Along with Benjamin Sesko as the central striker, the trio of Mbeumo – Cunha – Sesko promises to become a formidable attacking trident in the Premier League. Manchester United's season has truly taken off, built on smart investments from INEOS and a coherent tactical philosophy from the coaching staff.
The chaotic days seem to be behind us. Old Trafford is experiencing a new Manchester United: stronger, more coherent, and more hopeful.
