Mount’s Pre-Season Progress
Mason Mount has expressed feeling in excellent condition as Manchester United continues its preparations for the upcoming season. The midfielder, who joined the club in 2023, is aiming to be in top form for the start of the new campaign.
Mount’s time at United has seen him feature in 72 games across three seasons. This contrasts with his more regular playing time at Chelsea, where he was named player of the season in 2020/21, a season in which Chelsea became European champions, and again the following term.
During his tenure at Chelsea, Mount scored more goals, including 13 in the 2021/22 season. One of the reasons for his acquisition by United for a £55 million fee was his perceived goal threat from set-pieces, though goals have been infrequent for him at United.
Injuries have affected Mount’s time at United, with his first full 90 minutes in a Premier League match occurring in his third season at the club. Despite this, he has maintained the confidence of the managers he has played under, who value his contributions when fit and his versatility across several midfield positions.
Following United’s 5-0 pre-season victory against Rosenborg in Trondheim, Mount shared his thoughts on the team’s progress. He noted that the match provided an opportunity to refine aspects of their play, especially against an opponent in the middle of their season, which offered a sharper challenge compared to their previous game against Wrexham.
Leadership Role and Midfield Partnership
Mount also discussed his experience wearing the captain’s armband during the second half of the match against Rosenborg. He stated that he sees himself as a leader who leads by example through consistent effort on the pitch.
Having previously served as captain years ago, Mount expressed his enjoyment of the role, particularly in guiding younger players on the field and making them feel at ease. This sentiment was echoed by reports indicating that Ruben Amorim praised Mount’s leadership during his time, and Michael Carrick has also expressed admiration for the midfielder.
The midfielder has formed a partnership with new signing Andrey Santos in the midfield. Mount has known Santos for some time, having observed his development at Chelsea. He described Santos as a skilled player who reads the game effectively and is experienced despite his youth, having gained experience through loan spells and playing in the Premier League.
Mount highlighted Santos’s more defensive style, which allows him to push further forward. He also noted that both players are keen to engage defensively, make tackles, and regain possession aggressively. Mount mentioned that this is a position he has played for many years and enjoys.
Physical Condition and Upcoming Fixtures
Regarding his physical condition, Mount conveyed a strong sense of well-being, stating, “I feel brilliant. I feel really good.” He mentioned building on the momentum from the end of the last season, where he played in several games. He described his break as beneficial but expressed eagerness to return to training and regain his rhythm.
Mount feels strong and prepared, acknowledging that there are more pre-season games and weeks ahead to continue working on various aspects. United’s upcoming schedule includes a match against Atletico Madrid in Stockholm on Saturday, followed by a game against PSG the subsequent weekend in Gothenburg.
Source: thenationalnews.com