Ruben Amorim has officially taken the reins at Manchester United, and already, the buzz surrounding his plans for the team is growing.
With the Portuguese manager now in charge at Old Trafford following a successful stint at Sporting Lisbon, his appointment is seen as a major coup for the club. But Amorim’s first task is clear: he must steer a troubled United side—currently languishing in 13th place in the Premier League—back on track. As he begins to map out his plans for the future, one player in particular is set to benefit from Amorim’s fresh approach: Mason Mount.
The 39-year-old Amorim, who won two Primeira Liga titles and two domestic cups with Sporting, is widely regarded as one of the brightest young managerial talents in Europe. His innovative tactics, including his preference for a 3-4-3 system, were key to his success in Portugal, and it appears he is keen to implement that same approach at Manchester United. With the squad in need of revitalization, one of the most intriguing developments is Amorim’s decision to make Mount a pivotal figure in his new-look team.
Mount’s Forgotten Status at Old Trafford
Mount’s arrival at Manchester United last summer was seen as a significant coup. Signed for a hefty £60 million from Chelsea, the midfielder was expected to play a key role in Erik ten Hag’s plans. However, his time at Old Trafford has been far from smooth. Mount struggled with injuries and form, and his involvement under Ten Hag was sporadic at best. Despite his undeniable talent, the 25-year-old has been unable to showcase his best self in a United shirt, with injuries limiting him to just 26 appearances since his move.
The former Chelsea star had been an integral part of the Blues’ midfield before making the switch to Manchester United, with his versatility and work rate earning praise. However, his departure from Stamford Bridge sparked mixed reactions, as Mount’s move came after he entered the final year of his contract. His best performances at Chelsea arguably came under Thomas Tuchel, when the German manager deployed a 3-4-3 formation, which allowed Mount to flourish as an inverted winger. This system suited his game and helped him become one of the standout players in Tuchel’s Chelsea side.
Amorim’s Vision: A New Start for Mount
Now, under Amorim, Mount’s fortunes may be about to change. According to reports, Amorim has been impressed with the England international’s ability to adapt to various roles on the pitch. The Portuguese manager values versatility in his players, and Mount’s dynamic style could be the key to unlocking his potential at United. Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, which he used so effectively at Sporting, is expected to play a pivotal role in how Mount is deployed within the team.
Amorim is expected to bring a more fluid and adaptable style of play to United, and Mount’s ability to operate in multiple attacking positions could be crucial to this vision. While it remains to be seen exactly how Amorim will use Mount, the new manager’s tactical nous could see the midfielder finally realise the potential that many saw in him when he first arrived at Old Trafford. Whether it’s playing as a central attacking midfielder or potentially occupying a wider role, Mount’s flexibility could make him an essential part of Amorim’s plans.
The Pressure to Deliver: Can Mount Justify His £60 Million Price Tag?
The pressure on Mason Mount has been immense since he joined Manchester United. After his high-profile move from Chelsea, expectations were sky-high, but his time at Old Trafford has been marred by injuries and a lack of consistency. With his £60 million price tag hanging over him, the 25-year-old has struggled to make an impact on the pitch, with some critics questioning whether he was the right player to invest in. However, Amorim’s arrival could represent a fresh start for Mount, offering him a chance to prove his worth under a manager who appreciates his abilities.
Injuries have been a major setback for Mount since his move, and the disruption to his rhythm has made it difficult for him to adapt to the pace and style of the Premier League. However, Amorim’s tactical flexibility could help Mount find a way into the starting XI. The new manager’s style of play, which encourages fluidity and positional versatility, could be just what Mount needs to regain his best form. With United’s midfield needing a creative spark, Mount’s potential to link play and drive the team forward could be key to his future at the club.
Mount’s Previous Success Under a 3-4-3 System
Interestingly, Mount’s best spell of form came during Chelsea’s 2020-21 season, under manager Thomas Tuchel, who employed a 3-4-3 system that allowed the midfielder to excel. In this formation, Mount was deployed as an inverted winger, drifting inside to create space and contribute to Chelsea’s attack. His performances in this system saw him become one of Chelsea’s most important players, helping them secure a top-four finish in the Premier League and a Champions League title. It’s possible that Amorim sees Mount’s potential to replicate this success at United.
The 3-4-3 system has worked wonders for Amorim at Sporting Lisbon, and it could be the key to unlocking Mount’s full potential at United. The formation allows for fluid attacking transitions, with Mount able to operate in various positions and link up play between midfield and attack. His intelligence and ability to make runs into the box could be a huge asset in this setup, and Amorim’s experience with this formation gives him the tools to bring the best out of Mount.
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What Does This Mean for United’s Midfield?
Mount’s potential to play a central role in Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation raises interesting questions about United’s midfield setup moving forward. With Casemiro expected to play a crucial role as the holding midfielder, Mount could operate as one of the more advanced midfielders, linking up with Bruno Fernandes in a more fluid, attacking role. This would allow United to have a more dynamic midfield, with the ability to transition quickly from defence to attack.
The partnership between Mount and Fernandes could be vital to United’s success under Amorim. Fernandes is known for his creative vision and ability to dictate play, while Mount brings energy, work rate, and versatility. Together, they could form a formidable midfield partnership, with the freedom to roam and interchange positions in Amorim’s tactical setup.
The Pressure on Ruben Amorim to Deliver
Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Manchester United has raised hopes that the club can return to its former glory. With United languishing in 13th place in the Premier League, the pressure is on Amorim to turn things around quickly. However, the expectations surrounding his appointment are high, and his ability to get the best out of players like Mount will be crucial to his success.
Amorim’s tactical acumen, combined with his fresh approach, could be just what United need to get back on track. Mount’s resurgence under his guidance could be one of the defining storylines of the season, as the young midfielder looks to prove that he can live up to the high expectations that have surrounded his move to Old Trafford.
Mount’s Last Chance?
For Mason Mount, this may be his last chance to prove himself at Manchester United. If Amorim is able to unlock his full potential, Mount could become one of the team’s most important players. But if he continues to struggle with injuries and form, his future at the club could be uncertain. As the new manager looks to reshape the team, Mount’s role could be pivotal in United’s bid to return to the upper echelons of English football.
With Amorim’s vision taking shape, all eyes will be on Mount to see if he can rise to the occasion and justify the faith his new manager has shown in him. The next few months will be crucial for both the midfielder and Manchester United as they look to turn the page on a disappointing season and begin a new chapter under their promising young coach.
