Mount's Rallying Cry and the Pain of Missing Europe
Manchester United fans have gotten used to seeing their team fight for titles, not struggle to finish far from the top. But after a shocking 15th place in the Premier League and losing the Europa League final to Tottenham, reality has hit hard. The last time United missed out on European competition was during the fallout from the Heysel ban in the 1980s—it's that rare. So, when Manchester United midfielder Mason Mount says, “Europe is a massive, massive thing for us. That's the focus,” he isn't just repeating club slogans. He's voicing what almost everyone at Old Trafford feels: It's urgent they get back among the continent's elite.
Mount spoke openly during United’s pre-season tour stop in Chicago. He’s been at the club just a year but has already felt the sting of injuries and the pressure of expectation. Late in 2023, Mount finally put his fitness troubles behind him, and the team’s performances began to lift. Still, the mountain was just too steep, and United fell short. That bitter finish now serves as fuel. “It’s all about kicking on from here,” Mount said, as the atmosphere around the squad has become both relieved and restless.
New Faces, Familiar Pressure—and a Squad in Transition
Ruben Amorim, United’s new manager, sees team chemistry and fitness as non-negotiables this summer. With rumors swirling about who might be coming or going, it’s clear United’s rebuild is in full swing. The club spent over £125 million bringing in Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, hoping their energy and drive can jumpstart a side that looked flat last season. At the same time, talk of swap deals involving Alejandro Garnacho, Ollie Watkins, and Nicolas Jackson is everywhere, even though nothing’s settled yet. With Garnacho’s potential departure under discussion, supporters are left guessing about the final shape of Amorim’s squad.
Off the pitch, key players like Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia are staying put at Carrington for training while the rest of the squad tours the U.S. Their absence means some serious names are biding their time—Sancho could be on his way to Juventus, while Real Betis want Antony. Balance and discipline in player management have become central for United as they try to avoid another chaotic season.
As for Mount, the knock-on effect of 23 missed games due to injury last season turned his off-season into a mission. He focused on proper rest and disciplined rehab, saying, “I feel in really good shape...the rest was probably one of the most important things.” With rejuvenated stars, new signings, and a coach known for improving teams quickly, United are desperate to make last season a footnote rather than the start of a decline. The first step? Getting back into Europe, and fast.
