Bryan Mbeumo expects ‘very tough’ Manchester United test against Aston Villa

Bryan Mbeumo says Manchester United must be prepared for a difficult Premier League meeting with Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Michael Carrick’s side are 18th in the table and occupy a relegation-zone position, while Unai Emery’s Villa are 12th. Both teams have endured disappointing league campaigns so far, but Mbeumo believes the fixture presents an important opportunity for United to respond.

“Obviously, we have faced a not great one [period],” Mbeumo told the club’s media.

“But what we want is to come back and we can do our best and, yeah, meet the expectation we had at the start of this season.”

United are also aiming to end a seven-match winless run in the league when they face Villa.

Mbeumo expects that challenge to be particularly demanding, having been impressed by Villa since arriving in the Premier League.

“They’re [Villa] obviously a very difficult team to play. Ever since I’ve been in the Premier League, they’ve always been like a very good side in the league so obviously we’re expecting a very tough match,” he said.

The Cameroon international added that matches against strong opponents can provide the best test for United as they look to recover their form.

“But these matches are also the better ones to play, and we are really happy to get the challenge. They have very good players. They are a very good team. We know what they can do. So, it’s going to be on us to be ready for that.”