Bryan Mbeumo has said that taking the field in the Champions League with Manchester United on Thursday, when they host Sabah in their opening group-stage match, represents a significant personal milestone for the 27-year-old forward.

The Cameroon international, speaking alongside manager Michael Carrick at the pre-match press conference, looked back on his journey from Ligue 2 side Troyes and described the chance to come up against Europe’s top-level opposition as a major reward.

Mbeumo explained that his decision last summer to join United ahead of other possibilities was driven by his faith in the direction the club was heading. He added that messages from senior players before his arrival had reinforced the potential at Old Trafford, and that he quickly developed a strong connection with the squad.

Following a light-hearted exchange with Carrick over tactics, Mbeumo made it clear that he is at ease playing anywhere across the front line, whether through the middle or out wide, and that his display is more important than the role itself. Having scored two goals in his last two appearances, he indicated that he is ready to lead United’s attack against Sabah.

He also said he had watched the Champions League draw on television and is looking forward to experiencing Old Trafford under the floodlights. Anticipating a difficult challenge from Azerbaijani champions Sabah, who are making their debut, Mbeumo said every opponent and every setting presents a different test, and that measuring themselves at this level is important. United will be aiming to open their European campaign with an impressive performance.