Manchester United's final pre-season friendly against Fiorentina offered a glimpse into the potential future under Ruben Amorim, with new signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha making their Old Trafford debuts. However, it was former United hero David de Gea who stole the show on his return to the Theatre of Dreams.
Before the match, the Old Trafford faithful welcomed Mbeumo, Cunha, and fellow summer addition Benjamin Sesko, who didn't feature in the game. Mbeumo and Cunha were immediately thrust into the starting lineup, offering fans a first look at their potential partnership. Mbeumo, in particular, impressed with his dynamism and link-up play. Deployed in a fluid attacking role, the Cameroonian international showcased his ability to stretch defenses and create opportunities. He combined well with Amad Diallo and Cunha, demonstrating his versatility in various attacking systems. Mbeumo's performance was a bright spot in a United attack that, at times, lacked cohesion.
Cunha, playing on the left of the front three, had a quieter debut but still offered glimpses of his quality. While he didn't have a major impact on the game, the Brazilian international showcased his ability to link up with teammates and get into promising positions. He had a shot that went wide in the second half and came close to scoring a winner, indicating his potential to contribute in the final third.
Mason Mount, deployed in a more advanced central role, struggled to impose himself on the game. While his work rate couldn't be faulted, the England international looked less effective in a central attacking position. It remains to be seen how Amorim will integrate Mount into his preferred system, but there are "suspicions" about his ability to play in a deeper midfield role.
Despite the promising signs from Mbeumo and Cunha, the spotlight inevitably fell on David de Gea. The Spanish goalkeeper, now with Fiorentina, received a hero's welcome from the Old Trafford crowd. De Gea made several crucial saves against his former team, showcasing the shot-stopping ability that made him a fan favorite during his 12-year spell at the club. One notable save came from a Leny Yoro header, reminding everyone of his reflex prowess. Although Robin Gosens' own goal, caused by pressure from Yoro and Casemiro, leveled the score, De Gea's performance was a testament to his enduring quality. He was substituted late in the game, receiving a standing ovation from the appreciative crowd.
The match itself ended in a 1-1 draw, with United winning 5-4 on penalties. Altay Bayindir saved a penalty, and Kobbie Mainoo scored the decisive spot-kick to secure the Snapdragon Cup for United. While the result is secondary in a pre-season friendly, the game provided valuable insights into United's new-look squad and tactical approach.
Amorim experimented with different formations and player roles, looking to fine-tune his squad before the Premier League season begins. The performances of Mbeumo and Cunha offer hope for the future, while De Gea's return served as a reminder of the club's recent past. The manager has a week to further fine-tune his squad as they are slated to begin their Premier League campaign next Sunday against Arsenal at home.
