Wearing the armband, the Manchester United winger started his new life as leader of the Indomitable Lions with a goal against Comoros. In England, his start to the season has earned him a flattering nomination.
Bryan Mbeumo is stepping up. For the first window of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, David Pagou handed him the captaincy of a heavily rejuvenated Cameroon squad. It is a strong statement, making the Manchester United winger the face of the Indomitable Lions.
He wasted no time repaying that faith. On 24 September in Garoua, in his first game as captain, Mbeumo scored in a 3-1 win over Comoros, alongside Danny Namaso and newcomer David Roy Nyengue, who netted on his debut.
A quieter night in Brazzaville
On Tuesday, 29 September, things were less spectacular. Starting up front and playing the full match, the captain had a quiet evening as Cameroon drew 1-1 with Claude Le Roy’s Congo at the Alphonse-Massamba-Débat stadium in Brazzaville. Having fallen behind, Cameroon came back to earn a point.
With four points from two games, the Lions top Group G. A friendly against Ivory Coast is scheduled for this Saturday, 3 October. His involvement has not been confirmed.
Nominated in the Premier League
Mbeumo is making headlines in England too. His goal against Everton on 7 September is one of eight nominees for the Premier League’s goal of the month for September. The solo effort opened the scoring in Manchester United’s 2-2 draw.
The Cameroonian winger has two goals in five league games this season under Michael Carrick. He has also stood out for his pace, ranking second among the Premier League’s fastest players after hitting more than 35 km/h against Everton on matchday three.
Captain for his country and a key man for his club: at 27, Mbeumo appears to have reached a new level.