Mbeumo defends Manchester United players after Chelsea defeat

Bryan Mbeumo has defended Manchester United's players following their 2-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, insisting that the squad showed the right mentality despite another disappointing result.

United started brightly and created several promising opportunities in the first half but failed to take advantage of them. Mbeumo believes his side could even have gone into the break with a two-goal lead, pointing to the improved attacking performance as one of the positives.

"There is a lot of disappointment. I thought we played a solid game, especially in the first half. The mentality and work rate were good, and I believe the win will come," the forward said after the match.

The Cameroon international also rejected the suggestion that the players had let manager Michael Carrick down. He highlighted the team's togetherness and insisted that the squad continues to support one another, even when mistakes are made.

"We still trust everyone. Even with a man down, we kept working together. I think we did everything as a team today. Maybe we just missed some chances," Mbeumo explained.

Manchester United's task became considerably harder after Lisandro Martinez was sent off in the second half. Morgan Rogers had already put Chelsea ahead in the 50th minute before Cole Palmer converted a penalty in the 64th, following the defender's dismissal for a foul on Wesley Fofana.

The defeat extended United's winless run in all competitions to nine matches, increasing the pressure on Carrick. Mbeumo, however, believes there are reasons for optimism, pointing to the chances created against Chelsea and the team's collective effort.

United must now turn their attention to two important upcoming fixtures against Roma and Aston Villa as they look to end their difficult run of results.