Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender, has openly expressed his disappointment at Mason Mount’s challenging stint with the club since his high-profile transfer from Chelsea. The England midfielder, signed for £55 million in 2023, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, managing just four goals and one assist in 46 appearances while missing approximately 50 matches over two seasons. Ferdinand described the situation as “really, really disappointing,” emphasizing that frequent fitness issues have overshadowed Mount’s potential.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Ferdinand revealed a recent conversation with the 25-year-old during a trip to Chicago, where he inquired about Mount’s physical and mental well-being. “He’s been robbed of minutes because of injury,” Ferdinand said. “I’m sure he’s faced some dark moments.” Despite Mount’s struggles, the ex-centre-back remains optimistic, suggesting the upcoming season could offer a reset. “He has all the qualities to succeed here,” Ferdinand added. “He’ll be like a new signing for the team.”
The remarks arrive amid heightened scrutiny of Manchester United’s recent performance. The club slumped to a 15th-place Premier League finish last season, their worst in decades, and fell short of Champions League qualification after losing the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur. Mount’s inability to cement a role in the squad has compounded frustrations, with fans and analysts alike questioning the return on investment for the once-celebrated signing.
Mount, who earned acclaim at Chelsea for his versatility and work rate, was initially viewed as a strategic addition to bolster United’s midfield creativity. His persistent injury setbacks, however, have limited his contribution, leaving his tenure at Old Trafford at a critical juncture. As the squad prepares for preseason training, focus shifts to whether the midfielder can reclaim his form and justify the club’s faith in his abilities.
For United, the new campaign represents a chance to rebound from a turbulent period marked by underperformance and instability. Ferdinand’s comments underscore both the challenges facing Mount and the broader urgency for the team to deliver results. With a refreshed squad and renewed expectations, all eyes will be on whether the midfielder can finally transition from a marquee name to a pivotal on-field presence.
