During the 2019/20 season, Manchester United were a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad vying for top spots on the table. A significant factor in their success was the dynamic and captivating forward line that graced Old Trafford.
The acquisition of Bruno Fernandes from Sporting CP in January made United a formidable opponent for any team they faced. Fernandes was flanked by the lethal trio of Marcus Rashford on the left, Antony Martial at centre and Mason Greenwood on the right.
Convincing victories over Sheffield United, Brighton, Bournemouth, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Leicester City secured United’s place in the Champions League. Greenwood’s rise from the academy ranks had many buzzing, and after scoring 19 goals that season, the forward added another 12 in the 2020/21 season.
However, his tenure at Old Trafford ended abruptly in October 2022, when he was suspended following charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault – which were later dropped. After a loan stint in Spain with Getafe, the 24-year-old transferred to Marseille for £26.6million, with United including a substantial sell-on clause in the deal.
Since relocating to France, Greenwood has netted 29 goals and provided 10 assists in 46 appearances. During his prime at United, there was no winger who could match him, particularly on the right flank.
Since that pivotal moment, United have struggled to find a suitable replacement. In the summer of 2022, they splashed out £82m on Ajax’s Antony following his dazzling displays in the Netherlands.
The Brazilian failed to justify his hefty price tag, and after just 96 appearances, he transferred to Real Betis last summer for a mere £21.6m. However, the acquisition of Bryan Mbeumo during the same transfer window has already sparked more enthusiasm.
United’s strategy to focus on homegrown talent in the transfer market led them to spend over £120m on Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha. Eight matches into the 2025/26 season, and Mbeumo is already making his mark.
His goal against Liverpool on Sunday was only his second in the Premier League wearing his new colours. The Cameroonian effortlessly glided past Virgil van Dijk and coolly slotted the ball past Giorgi Mamardashvili.
After costing a whopping £71m in the summer, Mbeumo is now the first threat United have on the right since Greenwood’s exclusion due to personal issues. His goal at Anfield came just a day before Spanish reports suggested a potential move for Greenwood was being considered.
Barcelona are believed to be eyeing Greenwood to strengthen their attacking line-up. A return to Manchester seems unlikely, for obvious reasons. Luckily, Amorim has an excellent option on the right in Mbeumo, a luxury the club hasn’t had since 2022.