In their third season at Old Trafford, Manchester United fans finally seemed to be starting to see the best version of Mason Mount.
Many doubts have appeared when Erik ten Hag decided to spend 55 million pounds to recruit the former Chelsea star at a time when this player is facing a lot of criticism. Concerns surrounding a history of injuries, unstable fitness, and Mount not playing a clear role in the Dutch strategist's tactical system.
After a difficult start, Mount has gradually found a place under Ruben Amorim. Considered one of the players who was especially trusted by the Portuguese coach from the beginning, the English midfielder also has the most stable performance in the squad at Old Trafford. Notably, he has equalled his best scoring record in a single season at club level.
Sharing after Man United's 4-1 victory over Wolves, Mount talked about his role in Amorim's tactical system. For many, Mount has become a key link in Amorim's way of building the Red Devils' playground. In fact, Man United have had more positive results with his participation. They have lost just one Premier League game as Mount started, compared to three defeats in his absences.
Mason Mount leaves Man United without the basic principles?
Amorim has repeatedly stressed that the starting lineup is not a key factor. What he values most is the small details of how players operate and interact within that system.
"The most important thing is to rebuild the principles, identities and personalities that we have had in the past. We need time, but we have to take time for ourselves. Winning time means victory. However, the most core thing is still identity," Amorim said when he was officially appointed in November 2024.
Although these principles have never been specifically published, history shows that Amorim's teams have always been loyal to the ball control style of play based on short coordination, high defensive lines and pressing with great intensity.
At first glance, that philosophy seems very suitable for Mount's qualities. However, in reality, every time the English midfielder is in the squad, the above characteristics are not clearly shown.
Mount's starting percentage at Man United is currently at 50 50 50:30 compared to the number of matches he has played from the bench or not played. When Mount started, the "Red Devils" not only won more points but also scored more goals (an average of 2.25 goals/match compared to 1.50), while taking advantage of opportunities to be more effective (1.38 goals compared to 0.75).
These figures show that the positive impact is undeniable. However, if you go into the depth of the analysis, it can be seen that Mount in the squad, Man United tends to move away from the fundamental principles associated with Amorim's philosophy.
Although the total number of opportunities created when Mount started increased, the number of "clear" opportunities decreased. This shows that Man United are creating more situations with lower xG, instead of often putting the opponent in really dangerous defensive positions.
Part of the reason may come from Man United's more direct play every time Mount starts from the start. When he was on the pitch, the team made an average of more long passes, reduced the number of passes in the final third of the opponent's pitch by more than 10% and the accuracy rate also decreased by 17%.
Notably, Mount still managed to equal his best scoring record in a season at Man United, showing his individual contribution is very clear.
However, the most surprising thing is the ability to press. In Mount's starting matches, the "Red Devils" regained control of the ball in the less attacking area. This is a paradox, because Mount is highly appreciated for its intensity of activities and its support for causing pressure.
However, it should be emphasized that Mount is not and should not be the only cause of this decline. The problem, most clearly, lies in the way Man United are adjusting and operating the team around him.
