Bryan Mbeumo: United Newcomer Talks Chess, Piano & Ambition

Bryan Mbeumo: Chess Fan, Pianist, and United’s New Hope

Manchester United’s £65m summer signing Bryan Mbeumo may be a powerhouse on the pitch, but off it, he’s quietly thoughtful, loves chess, and plays piano to relax.

In an interview during United’s pre-season tour in Chicago, the 25-year-old Cameroon international revealed how he turned down Champions League football elsewhere to join Ruben Amorim’s ambitious project at Old Trafford.

“I’m someone who likes a challenge. Manchester United are a big club. It’s a great opportunity, and I wanted to be part of it,” Mbeumo told reporters.

Nervous Performer, Calm Competitor

While Mbeumo thrived last season, netting 20 goals in the Premier League for Brentford, he confesses it’s not the pitch but the piano that gives him nerves.

“Even in front of a few friends, it’s hard. I get nervous, but I love playing. I’m self-taught and not bad!”

Chess: The Hidden Link to Football

Mbeumo also finds solace in chess, playing anonymously on Chess.com with a rating of 800. Though seemingly unrelated to football, he believes the strategic overlap is powerful:

“In football, like in chess, you think ahead. It’s about planning and reacting. It keeps the brain sharp.”

With Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee reportedly also a chess fan, Mbeumo hopes to bring his board on future trips.

Delayed Debut but High Hopes

Mbeumo, behind in fitness due to Brentford’s later return schedule, hasn’t yet featured for United during the US tour. Amorim confirmed he will miss the Bournemouth game in Chicago but could play in the Summer Series finale against Everton in Atlanta on 3 August.

The Amorim Project: Why He Chose United

Despite interest from Tottenham and Newcastle—who both offered European football—Mbeumo chose United based on Amorim’s long-term plan:

“Ruben said, ‘We want to be the best team.’ I trusted the people around me to deliver the move I wanted.”

His role, alongside fellow newcomer Matheus Cunha, will be key in Amorim’s tactical 3-5-2-1 setup—operating behind the striker in dual number 10 positions.