Arsenal icon Patrick Vieira believes one Manchester United player is reaping the rewards of Michael Carrick’s tactics more than Bryan Mbeumo, especially after Sunday’s result.
During his punditry duties for Sky Sports, Patrick Vieira watched as his former club Arsenal fell to Manchester United in a 3-2 defeat at the Emirates.
Michael Carrick has now overseen impressive back-to-back Premier League wins over top-two sides Arsenal and Manchester City since taking charge.
Bryan Mbeumo was once again trusted to lead the line for Man Utd under Carrick’s system, and the summer signing from Brentford delivered another strong performance.
Mbeumo pulled Man Utd level before half-time when he capitalised on a costly mistake from Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi.
Patrick Vieira’s thoughts on Man Utd’s win over Arsenal after Bryan Mbeumo shines again
After Bryan Mbeumo pulled Manchester United level, Patrick Dorgu put them in front early in the second half. It was a well-taken goal that gave United some momentum coming out of the break.
Mikel Merino equalised for Arsenal late on, just when it looked like United might hold on. But even with time running out, there was still more to come.
Matheus Cunha replaced Bryan Mbeumo in the second half and the 26-year-old Brazilian forward scored the winner for Man Utd in Sunday evening’s result.
Following Manchester United’s 2-0 victory against Manchester City at Old Trafford last week, Vieira believed that Carrick and his colleagues had finally “answered” the significant questions surrounding them.
“There were still big questions after City,” he told Sky Sports.
“They answered them so well. They are back on track. There’s still a long way to go. Wins against City and Arsenal is so good for confidence.”
Bruno Fernandes takes centre stage in Manchester United’s win over Arsenal, despite Mbeumo’s strong performance
Playing in the No 10 role behind Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes featured there for the second straight Premier League match under interim boss Carrick.
The Manchester United captain’s performances against both City and Arsenal have drawn high praise from Vieira.
“The system allowed them to express themselves,” the Frenchman stated.
“I think the 4-2-3-1 allowed Fernandes to be a little bit more free on the pitch, create situations, score goals.
“You can see the pictures – the smile is back on the face of the United players.”
Under Ruben Amorim last season, Fernandes often played deeper before the manager was dismissed earlier this month. The coaching change has clearly had an impact on his play.
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