Manchester United have a player who has made the Premier League legend Gianfranco Zola feel sad over the last couple of years.
There have been some bad signings in recent seasons for Manchester United, with Antony and Rasmus Hojlund categorically terrible signings pound for pound.
It was such a rarity that a United signing would be a success that it defied belief that Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have been so successful.
However, there is just one of United’s slightly disappointing signings who has made Gianfranco Zola feel sad, having seen his drop off after becoming a Red Devil.
Mason Mount running in Manchester United white kit.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Gianfranco Zola was sad to see Mason Mount’s first two seasons at Manchester United
Somehow, two and a half years after joining the club, Mason Mount has only now completed his first full 90 minutes of his time at United.
The story of Mount at United has been a disappointment all around until Amorim arrived. Now, speaking on Premier League Productions’ The Weekend Wrap, Chelsea legend Zola has admitted he was saddened to see Mount over the past few years.
“When we won the Champions League, he was instrumental in many ways. He was one of the key players. To see regression, going backwards, it makes me sad. I know his value as a player and a person.”
Continuing to discuss Mount’s resurgence under Amorim, Zola admitted he is now pleased.
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“I’m pleased for him, I hope he can be injury-free and continue progressing, because he has all of the ability to do that.”
Rate Mason Mount’s time at Man Utd so far out of 10
Mason Mount in action during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Manchester United at Selhurst Park in 2025 in London, England.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
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Mount has been among the most prolific players under Amorim, especially since April, and his goal this weekend has likely solidified his starting role for the time being ahead of Cunha.
Mason Mount is now a starter on merit for Manchester United
Having cost £55m, Mount never got a chance to live up to this with his unfortunate run of injuries beginning in the opening weeks of his first season as a United player.
But anytime he has played this season, Mount has been impressive and really does deserve to be starting right now on merit.
Matheus Cunha or Mason Mount – Who should start vs West Ham?
Cunha / Mount split
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This season has even seen Mount develop into a leader within United’s squad, as proven when he comforted Leny Yoro after his poor showing against Crystal Palace.
Now, Mount just simply needs to build on this and keep scoring and get some assists to really make that number seven jersey his own.
He still has two seasons left on his contract and could make a successful career at Old Trafford.