Bryan Mbeumo has been a revelation for Manchester United since his £71 million move from Brentford, but the Cameroon international has revealed that a specific anthem from his Wembley heroics remains his ultimate “power song” at Old Trafford.
The 26-year-old, who arrived last summer after a stunning 20-goal season with the Bees, has quickly adapted to the pressures of United. While his technical skill on the pitch is clear, Mbeumo has opened up about the influence of music and his new-found passion for the piano in keeping him grounded.
The “Freed From Desire” Connection
Every player has a track that defines their career. For Mbeumo, it is Gala’s 90s classic ‘Freed From Desire’. The song became the soundtrack to Brentford’s historic promotion to the Premier League in 2021, a 90-minute battle at Wembley that Mbeumo remembers vividly.
“‘Freed From Desire’ was played when we won the play-offs, so I still listen to that,” Mbeumo told Manchester United’s official magazine. “Music is really important to me because I grew up with it. I remember every Sunday my dad would put music on… most of the time now it’s French rap, Afrobeat, and piano music.”
The Artist on and off the Pitch
Beyond his 42 appearances and 9 assists for the Red Devils this season, Mbeumo is developing a different kind of “touch” away from Carrington. The forward has recently invested in a new piano and is teaching himself to play Lukas Graham’s ‘7 Years’.
“I always like to learn new things in life. It’s relaxing,” he explained. This mental reset appears to be working; Mbeumo has become a “marvel to watch” alongside fellow new arrival Patrick Dorgu, forming a dynamic partnership that has revitalized United’s attack under Michael Carrick.
Is Centre-Forward His Best Role?
As United prepare for their upcoming clash against Everton, the debate around Mbeumo’s positioning continues. While he was lethal with limited opportunities against Arsenal, many fans and pundits like Dale O’Donnell believe his best work comes from wider areas where he can use his pace and creative vision.
With 9 assists already in his debut United campaign, Mbeumo’s ability to transition from the Championship to the pinnacle of the Premier League is a testament to the club’s new recruitment strategy. Whether he is leading the line or carving open defenses from the flank, Mbeumo is proving to be worth every penny of his £71m price tag.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
