The Premier League was back for Manchester United over the weekend – but many fans might have wished it wasn’t.
This came after a depleting 1-1 draw against Brentford, which had to be one of the most abysmal performances of the Erik ten Hag era, and definitely this season.
Remarkably, Manchester United looked to have stolen it in the 96th minute when Mason Mount grabbed his first goal in red – that was until Kristoffer Ajer replied just three minutes later with an equaliser.
It was the goalscorer who all eyes will be on in the next clash. He has a major point to prove to both Manchester United and Chelsea.
Mason Mount’s Manchester United turning point?
Ten Hag secured the services of Mount in July 2023, to which the England international was then revealed to be Manchester United’s new number seven.
He joined the likes of star-studded names around Old Trafford to don the iconic jersey, including Eric Cantona, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, George Best and Bryan Robson.
He’s had a seriously tough start to life at Old Trafford, but his goal against Brentford now does really seem like a turning point.
He gave the Red Devils a spark when he came on at the Gtech, which may now mean Mount could be granted his first Manchester United start since the 1st of November 2023 against his former side.
All eyes on the former Chelsea star
Mount has a massive point to prove – in regard to both fans.
To Manchester United, Mount needs to show the Red Devils faithful that he can be an integral part of United’s first-team squad, and fulfil his promise to honour the responsibilities that come with the number seven strip around Carrington.
To Chelsea, he needs to show them what they’re missing. This will be the first time Mount has faced his boyhood club since departing, and will no doubt get a very mixed welcome at Stamford Bridge.
A good performance in this game could seriously be the beginning of Mount’s return to his former glory – and kickstart what is to hopefully be a successful United career.
Will Mason Mount start against Chelsea?
With some of the shocking performances against the Bees, Mount has a good shot at being stuck in the starting XI against Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
It would be interesting to see the squad dynamic if Mount was to start out on the left, taking Marcus Rashford‘s place who was one of the worst players against Brentford.
Alternatively, a so-far unseen midfield of Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes and Mount could feature. This was arguably Ten Hag’s vision heading into the season, maybe replacing Mainoo with Casemiro.
We’d love to see Mount start – and if he does we are desperate that he steps up to the occasion.