Bryan Mbeumo (27) registered an assist and several dangerous moments as Manchester United beat Leeds United on penalties in Dublin, giving Michael Carrick another encouraging display from a forward playing up front on his own.
The pre-season friendly at Croke Park finished 1-1 after 90 minutes before United won 5-4 on penalties. Bruno Fernandes missed his spot-kick, while Noussair Mazraoui scored the winning penalty in front of a full house on Wednesday.
United created a number of chances and Leeds had the crossbar to thank for keeping the scores level during regulation time. Joshua Zirkzee scored United’s opener, continuing his encouraging pre-season, with Mbeumo setting him up after a counter-attack down the left flank.
What the numbers say about Mbeumo’s afternoon
The match data from Sofascore records an assist, two shots and one effort that hit the woodwork for Mbeumo. He was also denied by James Trafford and could have had more to show for his performance.
| Stat | Figure | Stat | Figure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assists | 1 | Total shots | 2 |
| Hit woodwork | 1 | Dribbles (successful) | 1 (1) |
| Touches | 36 | Was fouled | 1 |
Match stats via Sofascore
Off the ball, Mbeumo completed his dribble, won all of his tackles and contested three ground duels. He recovered possession three times and won one foul for United.
Why this matters for Carrick’s attacking options
Mbeumo has three goals in his last three friendlies as well as his assist against Leeds. His contribution comes as Benjamin Sesko is injured, Marcus Rashford is keen to leave and Zirkzee’s future remains unresolved.
With Mbeumo playing through the middle, his pre-season form offers Carrick an option in attack. The Leeds match also provided further evidence of his ability to contribute both in the final third and through his work without the ball.
It is a contrast with last season, when Mbeumo did not have the best of times after Carrick took charge. This pre-season has given him an opportunity to make amends.
What happens next
Mbeumo’s recent performances have put him in focus ahead of the Premier League season. His role through the middle and the availability of United’s other attacking options will shape how Carrick uses him once competitive fixtures begin.