Mason Mount scoring in the Sunderland win gives Ruben Amorim a reason to feel satisfied. However, it may also raise tactical concerns since Mount is playing in a role where MU invested heavily in new recruits this summer.
It’s no accident that Amorim sees Mount as a vital figure in the 3-4-2-1 system the Portuguese coach uses at Old Trafford. Mount has played in many different positions: a left wing-back for a few minutes against Brentford, but most notably as the number 10 behind the striker in the recent Sunderland victory. Mount’s versatility comes from his strong defensive abilities combined with impressive football intelligence.
The 26-year-old midfielder describes himself as someone who always tries to bring positive energy to his teammates whenever he plays. This positive energy from Mount resonates with Amorim’s wish to see him on the pitch, stemming from his disappointment with Matheus Cunha, the £62.5 million signing from the recent summer transfer window, who has yet to record a goal or assist in seven appearances for MU. Cunha’s early promise in the opening match against Arsenal has quickly become a memory, and Amorim dropped him from the starting eleven last weekend following a disappointing performance against Brentford. Interestingly, two years ago, Cunha was the player who spoiled Mount’s debut for MU by delivering a brilliant display while playing for Wolves.
Mount’s goal against Sunderland was only his third Premier League goal in three years, a figure clearly below expectations for a £60 million signing in summer 2023. Determining the best position for the 1999-born midfielder within MU’s lineup will also affect the playing opportunities of others, especially newcomer Cunha. Amorim expects Mount and Cunha to compete alongside Mbeumo for the two number 10 spots behind striker Sesko, but their playing styles are contrasting. Mount has the traits of a midfielder, while Cunha is used to playing as a forward from his Wolves tenure. If Amorim regularly uses Mount as an attacking midfielder, questions will be raised about whether MU wasted money on Cunha. Alternatively, if he wants to include Mbeumo, Cunha, and Mount in the same system, the former Chelsea midfielder might have to drop back into midfield alongside captain Bruno Fernandes. This could cause a serious imbalance in midfield since neither is a true central midfielder.
For now, Amorim needs a player who understands the 3-4-2-1 system like Mount to save MU amid their inconsistent performances. Meanwhile, MU supporters hope this 26-year-old midfielder avoids any further long-term injuries for the remainder of the season.