Bryan Mbeumo has revealed that growing up he wore Manchester United shirts with Cristiano Ronaldo on the back, and now he is thrilled to follow in his idol's footsteps at what he calls the 'biggest club in the world'. The 25-year-old completed his £65million move from Brentford on Monday, with a potential £6million in add-ons, signing a contract until 2030 with an option for a further season.
Speaking to club media, the Cameroon international said: 'From the start I wanted to join this club, this massive club, and now I'm here and I'm just really happy. For me, it's the biggest club in the world, in England as well. I think the fans are crazy, the stadium is amazing, and I think every player wants to play here.'
Mbeumo, who also admired Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Eden Hazard, joins Matheus Cunha in bolstering United's attack. He believes the Brazil international will 'bring something new' to the team. The forward is eager to build chemistry with his new teammates during the pre-season tour in the United States, which starts on Tuesday.
Reflecting on his time at Brentford, where he scored 20 Premier League goals under Thomas Frank, Mbeumo sees similarities between Frank and new boss Ruben Amorim. 'I think they have similar values. He seems really close to his players and his mentality, his winning thinking every time. This is a thing that I need,' he said.
Mbeumo emphasised the importance of team spirit and creating links quickly. 'It's important to create links as soon as possible, automatism as well with the team-mates, so in and out the pitch. The spirit is really important. Yeah, create a group, being involved as soon as possible, for me, it's something really important.'
