Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick spoke post-match about the importance of not giving his team all of the answers in pre-season. During the draw with Paris Saint-Germain, two of his players gave him an answer for the upcoming season.
Reviving a Promising Partnership
There were few bright moments during the Ruben Amorim era, but one of them was the link-up play between Amad and Bryan Mbeumo. The duo quickly formed a bond when Mbeumo joined from Brentford last summer. Both Amad and Mbeumo speak French and that helped them form a partnership both on and off the pitch.
In Amorim's 3-4-2-1 system, Amad was one of the few players who managed to thrive. He had the energy to burst up and down the flank, allowing United to pose a constant attacking threat. Meanwhile, Mbeumo was on the right-hand side of the two No.10s and benefited from Amad's energy.
Their combination was perhaps best showcased during the excellent win at Anfield. Moments into that game, the pair linked up for Mbeumo to strike and silence the home fans.
Adjusting to Carrick's System
The decision to sack Amorim has, of course, been proven to be the correct one as Carrick reintroduced a 4-2-3-1 formation, instantly improving United. However, the blossoming partnership between Amad and Mbeumo was stopped in its tracks a little.
Mbeumo was the clear starter at right wing while Amad was left to figure out where he fit. The Ivorian ended up settling for opportunities off the bench and he struggled to rediscover his form when given a chance. He ended the season a shadow of the player who started it.
Fortunately for Amad, he was picked for the World Cup and rediscovered his mojo in America. Playing as a No.10, he was one of the Ivory Coast's best players at the tournament. He returned to Carrington with his confidence well and truly restored. However, in Manchester, the same problems awaited him.
A New Solution Emerges
The 4-2-3-1 was not going anywhere and Amad could not expect to start as a No.10 when Bruno Fernandes remained at the club. On Saturday, Mbeumo and Amad showed Carrick how they can be used together in his system.
Amad started down the right flank and was a constant menace for PSG. The Reds' goal against the Champions League holders came after Amad pressed high up the pitch, winning the ball back well and laying it off for Mbeumo to strike home.
It was a flashback to the link-up play under Amorim and headlined a good performance for the Ivorian. Mbeumo was also on top form leading the line. The forward proved to be a constant headache for Matvey Safonov, forcing the goalkeeper into a number of top saves.
Looking Ahead
While Carrick will be relieved to have found a place for Amad in his squad, he will have been pleased by Mbeumo too. With Benjamin Sesko recovering from injury, United needed an alternative up front. They have turned to Joshua Zirkzee in pre-season, but there are still question marks as to his suitability in that role.
In Mbeumo, United have a proper threat in attack. On another day he could have had a hat-trick. These last two performances, against Atletico Madrid and PSG, have shown how important he can be.
It was a positive display from Carrick's side overall even if the result will always be a non-factor in pre-season. What was more important for United was to find solutions that could work in the regular season.
Amad on the right and Mbeumo down the middle look like a good combination for Hull in a fortnight - especially as Sesko works his way back to full fitness. Heading into the new season, Carrick will be delighted to have this option up his sleeve.
