Manchester United’s new signing Mason Mount claims he left Chelsea because he realised he was not in the club’s plans several months ago.
Wednesday, Mount signed a five-year contract with United reportedly for £55 million ($70 million).
According to reports, the England international’s move to Old Trafford was precipitated by stalled contract negotiations at Stamford Bridge.
Mount, however, had the suspicion that Chelsea would plan without him in the long term, which convinced him to join the Red Devils.
“Several months ago I think it became clear that I wasn’t in Chelsea’s plans moving forward and once I knew that United were involved, my decision was made,” Mount told MUTV.
“It’s a massive club, huge, iconic players have played here, and I wanted to be a part of that from the beginning. Getting in early, ready for pre-season to start, was a main objective of mine as well.”
Mount spent 18 years with Chelsea and helped them win the Champions League in 2021 before experiencing a decline in form during the Blues’ turbulent season last year.
His work ethic, ability to score crucial goals, and ability to provide crucial assists should make him a vital member of Erik Ten Hag’s squad.
“I’ve always seen myself as a midfielder, a number eight that can obviously get forward and attack, try to score goals, create goals, but also be able to do the other side as well and defend and help the team when we’re under pressure,” he said.
Mount will don the number seven United shirt made famous by Eric Cantona, Cristiano Ronaldo, George Best, and David Beckham.
In an effort to follow in the footsteps of these legends, the 24-year-old revealed he cut short a family vacation to Disneyland in order to finalise his transfer to Manchester United.
“We had a little trip to Disneyland, for the niece mainly. I enjoyed it as well, of course!” he said.
“We came back a bit early just to make our way up here, drive up here, see what the trip’s like and everything. But it was well worth it, and it’s great to be up here now.
“It’s been an amazing couple of days, coming here, seeing everyone, meeting everyone at the training ground, such a warm welcome. I feel very much at home already.”
