Bryan Mbeumo says he “can’t wait” to experience Champions League football at Old Trafford as Manchester United prepare for their return to Europe’s leading club competition.
The Cameroon international will play in the Champions League for the first time this season after helping United secure qualification during his debut campaign.
Mbeumo’s comments have added relevance after another encouraging pre-season performance. The 26-year-old scored as Michael Carrick’s side drew 1-1 with holders Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg on Saturday.
Bryan Mbeumo Champions League ambition made clear
Speaking on the Inside Carrington podcast after United secured qualification in May, Mbeumo was asked about the prospect of Champions League nights at Old Trafford.
“I just can’t wait,” Mbeumo said.
He added that playing in the competition had been a long-term ambition and spoke about wanting to test himself at the highest level throughout his career.
Mbeumo joined United from Brentford last summer in a deal worth an initial £65million, with a further £6million potentially due in add-ons. At the time, he described United as the club of his dreams despite having other options available.
His first season produced 12 goals in all competitions and ended with United returning to the Champions League.
The forward has started to find his rhythm again during pre-season.
He scored twice against Atletico Madrid before finding the net against PSG, taking his tally to three goals across his past two friendly appearances.
Watch Mbeumo’s equaliser against PSG on ReadManUtd
Carrick will hope that form carries into the competitive campaign.
United did not have European football during Mbeumo’s first season at Old Trafford. He now has the opportunity he wanted when he made the move from Brentford.
For Mbeumo, the next step is no longer simply reaching the Champions League.
It is showing he belongs there.
