Forget Matheus Cunha — the real “new signing” at Manchester United this season is Mason Mount. After a long battle with injuries, the English midfielder is finally back to his best, becoming a crucial part of Ruben Amorim’s dynamic system at Old Trafford.
Mount – the new spark at Old Trafford
When United splashed £62.5 million to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves, many expected the Brazilian forward to be the centerpiece of their attack. But so far, Cunha has disappointed: nine appearances, no goals, no assists, and a missed penalty that sent United crashing out of the League Cup against Grimsby.
In contrast, Mason Mount — once dismissed as a failed signing under Erik ten Hag — has transformed under Ruben Amorim. After two injury-ridden seasons, Mount has rediscovered his identity as a tireless engine: pressing relentlessly, covering ground, and dictating tempo within the team’s collective rhythm.
In the 2–0 win over Sunderland, Mount not only scored but also orchestrated pressing sequences and launched rapid transitions — a perfect embodiment of Amorim’s high-energy, structured philosophy.
A player who “does it all for the team”
“As a manager, you always want a player like Mount,” said former United defender Phil Jones. “He’s not just about goals or assists — he sprints 40 yards to press, tracks back, and lifts the team’s spirit. He leads by action, not by words.”
Mount used to be labeled a “teacher’s pet” — under Lampard, Tuchel, and later Ten Hag. But with Amorim, his place in the lineup is earned through discipline and commitment, not reputation.
Rio Ferdinand echoed that sentiment: “Mount may not be the flashiest with the ball, but you always get intensity, organization, and heart from him. Every coach in the world wants that kind of player.”
The symbol of perseverance
Mount’s career has been defined by resilience. After two seasons plagued by injuries, he never gave up — training hard, maintaining fitness, and waiting patiently for his moment.
“I love him,” Amorim once said. “When I look into Mount’s eyes, I can see how badly he wants it.”
That hunger paid off in April, when Mount scored twice against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semifinal and started in the final against Tottenham. Though United lost 1–0, Amorim praised Mount afterward, calling him “the embodiment of the spirit we’re building here.”
A perfect fit for Amorim’s philosophy
In Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, Mount plays a pivotal tactical role. He can operate as a No.10, drop deeper as a central midfielder, or drift wide to trigger the press. Having already played in a similar setup at Chelsea under Thomas Tuchel, Mount quickly adapted and thrived.
Mount himself acknowledged this synergy:
“I understand what the manager wants — collective pressing and intensity. I try to set that tone every time I’m on the pitch.”
While Cunha still struggles to find his ideal position — admitting that his versatility “sometimes confuses others” — Mount’s clarity and discipline have made him indispensable. He seamlessly links defense and attack, combining intelligence with tireless energy.
The “new signing” United didn’t expect
Mount may not be new to Old Trafford, but his resurgence makes him feel like a luxury new arrival. For Amorim, he’s not just a reliable midfielder — he’s a source of inspiration in the dressing room.
Mount’s consistency has been key to United’s recent strong run in the Premier League. With him on the pitch, Amorim has a silent leader — someone who understands that victories aren’t only won through goals or assists, but through every press, every off-ball run, and every ounce of effort poured into the collective cause.