Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been told that Manchester United's £65 million signing Bryan Mbeumo could have been the missing piece to deliver the Premier League title to the Emirates Stadium. The stark assessment comes from former Gunners midfielder Emmanuel Petit, who believes his old club missed a crucial opportunity in the summer transfer market.
Petit's Verdict on Mbeumo's Impact
Speaking exclusively to talkSPORT, Petit expressed his admiration for the Cameroon international, who joined Manchester United from Brentford in a high-profile move. 'I saw exactly what I thought about this player against Arsenal,' Petit revealed. 'It's Mbeumo. I think in terms of movement, he's very intelligent. He's got this flair in front of the goal. He's very good in terms of assists as well.'
The French World Cup winner elaborated on Mbeumo's qualities that he believes would have transformed Arsenal's title challenge. 'I love his work rate. I love his behaviour on the pitch, technically, mentally as well. But more importantly, I like his movement, the link with his players all the time. He brings something different up front.'
Proven Premier League Pedigree
Mbeumo's credentials are certainly impressive. The 26-year-old forward scored 20 goals in his final season at Brentford before making his big-money move to Old Trafford. Since joining Manchester United, he has taken his game to another level, netting nine times in 19 appearances across all competitions.
His recent performances have been particularly noteworthy. Mbeumo played a significant role in United's dramatic 3-2 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, following up with another influential display in the Manchester derby against City. These contributions have seen him hailed as one of the signings of the season, with Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney describing him as the club's 'best player' back in October.
Arsenal's Transfer Regret
Petit's comments highlight what appears to be a significant transfer market oversight by Arsenal. The Gunners were reportedly interested in Mbeumo but ultimately lost out to Manchester United, who also beat Tottenham Hotspur to secure his signature. 'When I saw Manchester United buy him in the last transfer market, I thought, this is a good bargain,' Petit admitted, suggesting Arsenal missed a golden opportunity.
The timing of Petit's assessment is particularly poignant given Arsenal's current predicament. The defeat to Manchester United leaves Arteta's side just four points ahead of second-placed Manchester City as they pursue their first Premier League title since 2004. Having now gone three league games without a victory, the north London club's title challenge appears to be stuttering at a crucial stage of the season.
Title Race Implications
Manchester United's victory over Arsenal had significant consequences for the Premier League table. The result propelled Michael Carrick's resurgent side back into the Champions League places, moving above both Chelsea and reigning champions Liverpool. For Arsenal, the defeat represents a major setback in their championship ambitions.
As Arsenal prepare for their final Champions League group game against Kairat, where they have already secured qualification with a perfect record, attention will quickly return to domestic matters. A tricky away fixture against Leeds United awaits this weekend, with Arteta desperately needing to reignite his team's title charge.
Carrick's Manchester United Revival
Meanwhile, Manchester United are enjoying a remarkable resurgence under interim manager Michael Carrick. Initially expected to be a temporary appointment, Carrick has guided United to three consecutive victories, with many pundits now suggesting he should be considered for the permanent managerial position.
The transformation has been particularly evident in United's attacking play, with Mbeumo emerging as a central figure in their improved performances. As United prepare to welcome Fulham to Old Trafford on Sunday, they will be looking to extend their winning run and consolidate their position in the top four.
Petit's analysis serves as a sobering reminder of the fine margins in football's transfer market. While Arsenal continue their pursuit of Premier League glory, the player who could have made the difference now wears the red of Manchester United, potentially shaping the destiny of this season's title race.
