Rio Ferdinand on Bryan Mbeumo: Manchester United Legend Hails Forward as “a Joke” After Stunning Premier League Start
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has showered praise on Bryan Mbeumo after the winger’s blistering start to life at Old Trafford. Ferdinand, never one to hand out compliments lightly, described Mbeumo as “a joke” following the Cameroonian’s dominant display against Tottenham Hotspur, where he scored the opener in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Mbeumo, signed from Brentford in a £71 million summer move, has been one of United’s standout performers this season. The 25-year-old’s mix of pace, strength, and clinical finishing has transformed United’s attack, giving them an edge they’ve lacked in recent years. Ferdinand’s comments reflect how quickly the winger has adapted to the intensity and expectations of playing for one of the world’s biggest clubs.
“Bryan Mbeumo has been a joke since joining United,” Ferdinand said on his Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel. “He’s taken the pressure, the criticism, and the spotlight, and he’s handled it like a seasoned pro. He gives the team moments of calm in chaos, that ability to hold the ball up, find space, and deliver when it matters.”
Since joining, Mbeumo has scored five goals and assisted twice in 11 Premier League appearances, numbers that speak volumes about his influence. His aerial threat and ability to attack defenders from either flank have provided manager Ruben Amorim with new tactical flexibility. It’s no surprise United’s recent upturn in form coincides with his arrival, as the team now sits seventh in the league, just a point shy of the top four.
Ferdinand emphasized how Mbeumo’s versatility separates him from other wide men in the league. “He’s one of those players who can play on either side, drop deep, or stretch defenses. You can tell Thomas Frank coached him well at Brentford, but now he’s refining that under Amorim. By the end of the season, he’ll be one of the most complete wingers in the league.”
Mbeumo’s impact goes beyond goals and assists — his pressing, defensive work rate, and leadership on the pitch have set the standard for the rest of the team. The winger’s relentless energy has also helped United improve their transition play, allowing them to break quickly and efficiently. He’s become exactly the kind of high-intensity forward Amorim envisioned when building his system.
Ferdinand wasn’t shy about acknowledging the contributions of other players as well. He singled out centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, who has rediscovered his form and confidence under Amorim’s management. “De Ligt has been phenomenal,” Ferdinand noted. “He’s leading from the back, pressing at the right moments, and even scoring crucial goals. He’s showing the maturity that made him a top prospect at Ajax.”
Goalkeeper Senne Lammens also received credit from the former United defender. Ferdinand pointed out how the Belgian shot-stopper’s consistency and calmness have stabilized United’s defense after a rocky start to the campaign. “When you’ve got a solid goalkeeper behind you, the whole team plays with more confidence,” he said. “Lammens has been that steady presence every great side needs.”
Beyond the individuals, Ferdinand believes Mbeumo’s arrival represents a broader shift at Manchester United — a renewed belief in intelligent recruitment and a coherent footballing identity. For years, the club was accused of signing names rather than fits, but Mbeumo’s performances prove that the new leadership structure is beginning to pay off.
Fans, once skeptical of the hefty price tag, are now fully behind the Cameroon international. His chemistry with Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha continues to blossom, with the trio combining to produce some of United’s most fluid attacking sequences in recent memory. Their movement, creativity, and instinctive understanding are beginning to evoke memories of the club’s most dynamic forward lines.
Ferdinand’s parting message was clear — consistency will be key. “If Mbeumo keeps this up, he’s going to be among the Premier League’s best. He’s got everything: pace, strength, technical skill, and the mentality to thrive under pressure. Now it’s about doing it week in, week out.”
For a team rebuilding its identity under Amorim, Bryan Mbeumo has become more than just a signing — he’s a statement. His form symbolizes the hunger, discipline, and confidence Manchester United have been desperate to rediscover. And if Ferdinand’s glowing endorsement is anything to go by, Mbeumo might just be the spark that ignites United’s resurgence this season.