Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Fiorentina in their latest pre-season friendly may have looked like just another warm-up match. But one fan’s sharp-eyed observation has sparked a debate among supporters, and it’s all about Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo.
The game at Old Trafford was meant to give Ruben Amorim one last chance to test his ideas before the new Premier League season begins. But while fans celebrated seeing the club’s new signings in action, not everyone was impressed with what they saw.
One United supporter noticed something unusual: Amad and Mbeumo were getting in each other’s way. The fan explained that both players were moving into the same attacking lanes, making it harder for each of them to shine.
With Mbeumo arriving in a massive £70 million deal, this clash of roles could be a real tactical headache. The fan even suggested that Amad might have to become more of a backup option, unless the manager changes the system.
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The proposed solution? A clever positional switch depending on whether United have the ball or not. Out of possession, Mbeumo would play inside and Amad would stay wide. In possession, Amad would move inside while Mbeumo takes the outside role.
This tweak, the fan argued, would let Amad and Matheus Cunha play in central pockets where their technical skill can shine, while Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu use their pace and strength on the wings.
It’s an idea that has caught the attention of many fans online, especially as Amad and Mbeumo are still learning to play together. Amorim will need to find the right balance, and quickly.
The match itself didn’t start well for United. Just eight minutes in, Fiorentina’s Simon Sohm scored after United left two players completely unmarked from a corner. It was the kind of defensive lapse that worries fans ahead of facing Arsenal next week.
United did manage to equalise thanks to a lucky break. A Fiorentina own goal, caused by Robin Gosens, brought them level after Casemiro’s aggressive pressing. But clear scoring chances were rare.
Cunha, Mbeumo, and Mason Mount showed moments of promise, but former United keeper David De Gea, now at Fiorentina, was on top form. Cunha’s best shot was blocked in the closing minutes, keeping the game tied.
Off the pitch, new striker Benjamin Sesko got a hero’s welcome as he was presented to fans before kick-off alongside Cunha, Diego Leon, and Mbeumo. Sesko is tipped to be a big goal threat this season.
Amorim praised Sesko, saying: “He’s really young. He’s good in the air, good running the channels, and good on the ball. I think he has great potential.”
Mason Mount also made a case to start against Arsenal, showing that he still has plenty to offer despite competition from the new signings.
De Gea’s return to Old Trafford was emotional. He received warm applause during the warm-up, a framed picture before kick-off, and cheers whenever he touched the ball. His reflex save from Leny Yoro’s close-range header was pure vintage De Gea.
Speaking of Yoro, the young French defender has been one of the most consistent players in pre-season. Despite United’s defensive rotation, he looks set to start the opener against Arsenal.
Transfer rumours still swirl. United may look to strengthen midfield, but they might need to sell first. Rasmus Hojlund has been linked with AC Milan, though he reportedly doesn’t want to leave.
Amorim believes the team environment has improved. “I can feel the improvements… we have made important additions to the squad,” he wrote in his programme notes. But the defensive slip against Fiorentina showed there’s still work to do.
Arsenal will be a much tougher opponent than Fiorentina. If United want to start the season strong, they’ll need sharper defending and a clear attacking plan, which might include that fan’s tactical switch for Amad and Mbeumo.
For now, fans are left wondering: will Amorim take the advice, or will the clash between Amad and Mbeumo continue into the season?
