“I will always pick Him ahead of Mbeumo any day and anytime” – Jamie Carragher Picks Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee Over Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo in Striker Debate 🔥
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has once again sparked heated debate in the football world after boldly declaring that Manchester United’s summer signing Joshua Zirkzee is a far superior striker to Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo. Carragher, who has never shied away from speaking his mind, insisted that Zirkzee possesses qualities that Mbeumo simply does not, particularly in terms of creativity, positioning, and overall attacking instinct.
Carragher’s statement came during a post-match analysis where he was pressed on Manchester United’s recent performances and the decision-making of manager Ruben Amorim, who has often rotated his front line. With Amorim’s choices under constant scrutiny, Carragher did not mince his words, questioning why Zirkzee isn’t being prioritized ahead of players like Mbeumo in the striking debate.
Carragher explained: “For me, Zirkzee offers a unique profile that is rare in modern football. His link-up play, his awareness in the box, and his creativity make him a striker you can build an attack around. Mbeumo is quick and energetic, but he doesn’t have that natural striker’s instinct that Zirkzee has. I will always pick him ahead of Mbeumo any day and anytime. Amorim needs to recognize that.”
Zirkzee, who joined United amid huge expectations, has already shown glimpses of brilliance despite the club’s inconsistent form this season. His ability to drift between the lines, hold up the ball, and create chances out of nothing has been one of the few bright sparks for the Red Devils in an otherwise turbulent campaign. Many fans have echoed Carragher’s sentiments, claiming that Zirkzee’s elegance and composure on the ball make him a striker who could eventually become a Premier League star if properly utilized.
On the other hand, Bryan Mbeumo, who has been a reliable figure for Brentford, offers speed and work rate but has often been criticized for lacking clinical edge in front of goal. While Mbeumo has delivered for Thomas Frank’s side, Carragher argues that his style of play is more effective in a system built around counter-attacking rather than leading the line for a big club like Manchester United.
The comparison between the two forwards has ignited a wave of reactions online, with Manchester United fans rallying behind Zirkzee and demanding that Amorim make him a guaranteed starter. Social media platforms have been buzzing with clips of Zirkzee’s intelligent movement, touches, and goals, with many supporters highlighting the stark contrast between him and Mbeumo in terms of pure striker instincts.
Carragher’s comments now put further pressure on Amorim, who has faced heavy criticism from pundits and fans alike for tactical decisions that many feel have stifled United’s attacking potential. If the Portuguese manager continues to sideline Zirkzee or use him sparingly, questions about his judgment will only grow louder, especially when voices as influential as Carragher’s are calling for a change.
For now, the debate rages on, but one thing is clear: in Jamie Carragher’s eyes, Joshua Zirkzee is not just another forward at Old Trafford — he is a player who deserves to be front and center, far ahead of rivals like Bryan Mbeumo when it comes to leading the attack.