Mason Mount’s decision to leave Chelsea for Manchester United this summer may lead to regrets, according to former Chelsea defender Glen Johnson.
Mount, 24, completed a high-profile £60 million move from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford, signing a five-year deal with Manchester United. Despite the anticipation surrounding his arrival, Mount has struggled to find his top form in a United shirt. Johnson’s concerns arise amidst reports of unhappiness among United players regarding manager Erik ten Hag’s management, though it is not implied that this relates to Mount.
Ten Hag’s team has endured a difficult start to the season, with four losses in their first eight Premier League games and defeats in their initial two Champions League group matches. Although it may not be considered a crisis, Manchester United needs a quick turnaround of fortunes.
Mount’s signing was seen as an addition to the midfield trio in Ten Hag’s side. He initially played in that role during the opening Premier League fixtures against Wolves and Tottenham but found it challenging to exert influence, which was followed by an injury absence.
Since then, Mount has returned to play in an improvised United midfield alongside Casemiro, while Sofyan Amrabat moved into the holding midfield position he prefers, after previously being deployed at full-back due to a defensive injury crisis. Nonetheless, Manchester United’s midfield continues to lack clear definition.
Former Premier League defender Johnson shared his perspective with Betfred, suggesting that Mount may currently have regrets about his decision to join Manchester United: “At the moment he will be [regretting his decision to join Manchester United]. Manchester United is a very big football club, but you don’t join them with the expectation that you’re going to be part of a team that’s tenth in the Premier League.
“You only want to go there to challenge for major honors, and I know that Chelsea isn’t in a better position at this very moment, but you don’t move to Old Trafford in the expectation that you’re going to struggle. I don’t know why he decided to leave Chelsea, but I’m sure he’s questioning his decision at this very moment.”
Despite their early-season difficulties, Manchester United remains one point ahead of Chelsea in the Premier League standings. Chelsea is not participating in European competition this season. Mount had made 195 appearances for Chelsea over four seasons, scoring 33 goals for the club.