Man Utd’s incredible attack after swooping for ‘next Ronaldo’ | Football | Sport
Manchester United are among a host of clubs reportedly eyeing up Real Madrid’s young sensation, Endrick. The Brazilian prodigy, often hailed as ‘the next Ronaldo’, has found it challenging to secure regular playing time at the Bernabeu. Highly regarded in his homeland, the youngster signed with Los Blancos in 2022 but only joined in 2024 when he turned 18, for a hefty £52million. He has already earned several caps for his senior national team.
Despite his immense potential, Endrick has found it tough to break into Xabi Alonso’s frontline this season, which is hardly surprising given he’s vying for a spot against the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior. Endrick is reportedly keen to depart from the club, with Ruben Amorim‘s side among the speculated suitors. Express Sport explores what United’s attack could look like should they manage to secure an audacious deal for Endrick.
The Sunday People report that Endrick has told his representatives that if he doesn’t start getting game time in the Spanish capital soon, a January exit could be on the horizon.
The report identifies United as a potential suitor and suggests that if a deal, whether loan or permanent, is finalised, then Endrick could fill Amorim’s centre-forward position.
The 19-year-old has the creativity to drop deeper when required, allowing his forward partners to push ahead of him, potentially emulating the role Matheus Cunha played against Liverpool.
By not providing Arne Slot‘s centre-backs with a forward to mark closely, such as potential focal point Benjamin Sesko, United managed to stretch Liverpool‘s defence using Cunha’s adaptable positioning. If Endrick does join the squad, then Sesko could be utilised in his place when appropriate or make an impact as a substitute if a more direct approach is required.
Matheus Cunha shifts to the right
Cunha put on an impressive display against Liverpool and acknowledged his versatility and readiness to play wherever he is positioned. Already for United, the £62.5m signing has functioned as both a centre-forward and a No. 10. In this dream frontline, he will drop slightly deeper on the right.
Amorim typically deploys Bryan Mbeumo on the right, with Cunha on the left dropping deeper and allowing the other wide forward to almost play alongside a striker.
However, in this scenario, these positions are reversed and a more traditional winger who often drifts wide will operate on the left with Cunha positioned to the right of fellow Brazilian Endrick. Cunha has previously played in this position for Wolves.
This not only adds a touch of chemistry as Cunha and Endrick have played together for their national side, but it also bolsters both flanks. Currently, Amad and Mbeumo operate on the right, with either Diogo Dalot or Patrick Dorgu joining Cunha on the left.
If the positions are switched, we could see Cunha and Amad forming a dynamic duo on one side, which might be more effective given that Mbeumo and the Ivorian have similar styles. A new superstar winger could then dazzle on the left, with a more defensive wing-back providing support.
Antoine Semenyo recruited for the left
Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, one of the Premier League’s most in-form talents, has already netted six goals this season and his lightning speed down the left wing has sparked transfer rumours. It’s estimated that he could command a fee north of £75m.
United have been linked with Semenyo should he decide to leave the Cherries, and in this scenario, he is brought in to provide United with a potent threat on the left. A front three of Endrick, Cunha and Semenyo would offer more balance across the pitch.
The more defensive wing-back can support Semenyo, while Amad can freely surge forward with Cunha operating from a deeper position. It’s worth noting that dropping Mbeumo from the starting line-up after his impressive performances since his £65m move from Brentford this summer seems rather unthinkable.
However, if Semenyo is available, it’s a no-brainer to give one of the Premier League’s top attacking talents a starting spot. Mbeumo could come off the bench, much like Sesko, and Amorim could adjust his front three for specific matches where a wider threat on the right is more suitable.
