Mbeumo returns to Manchester United with derby winner against City

Bryan Mbeumo returned to the English Premier League in spectacular fashion on Saturday with the opening goal in Manchester United’s 2-0 derby victory over Manchester City.

After failing to score with the Cameroon national team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the Indomitable Lions forward provided a major confidence boost to the Red Devils in his first match back. A poorly executed free kick sequence from City allowed the United attack to sprint out in transition and Mbeumo finished from Bruno Fernandes’ pass in the 65th minute.

The signs were troubling throughout the clash for City at Old Trafford. The hosts had two goals disallowed, including one from Ivory Coast star Amad Diallo who was also back in action for his club since returning from Morocco.

But United did not lose their focus despite being denied by VAR twice in the opening 45 minutes. Ten minutes after opening the scoring, Patrick Dorgu confirmed the end of a four-match winless streak with his second league goal of the campaign.

 

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Despite their struggles over the New Year period, United move into 5th place with the result and gain valuable momentum with the return of their African stars. Next Sunday they return to action with a big clash against Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.