'Don't be afraid, Mason' - Mount sent 'make or break' warning as Man Utd legend urges struggling midfielder to start 'taking risks'

Mount made the high-profile move from Chelsea to United in the summer of 2023, with a transfer fee of £60 million ($76 million). However, his first season at United was marred by injuries and inconsistency, leading to widespread disappointment.

The former Chelsea star struggled to find his rhythm, with a persistent calf injury sidelining him for much of the campaign. Hence, his move to Manchester did not yield the immediate impact that many had hoped for, with his performances falling short of the high standards he had set during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Reflecting on Mount’s first season, Berbatov acknowledged the midfielder’s struggles but expressed confidence in his potential to bounce back.

In an interview with Futbin, he said: "The first season was disappointing for him and something to forget. But he can learn from that and what he can learn is to get better. If you give him the opportunity he has to go out and give the best he can. He didn't manage to do that last season, unfortunately. But the talent and the quality are there. Everybody saw what he did at Chelsea, but he didn't produce it at Man United.”

The former striker also noted the competition Mount faces within the squad, particularly from Bruno Fernandes, who plays a similar role in the team. “Bruno Fernandes is a similar type of player, but it is a long season and there are a lot of games to be played, and they need competition. He can make a difference with the passes and his runs.”

One of Berbatov’s key messages to Mount was the importance of taking responsibility and being brave on the pitch. He urged the midfielder to shed any hesitation or self-doubt that might have held him back during his first season at United.

“My only wish for him is to get through the thought that he is new and that he doesn't want to take responsibility," he said. "It is his second season now and he needs to have a good season. This is the moment to make or break, so he has to go out there and be brave. Take some chances and risks. He has the quality, so don't be afraid, Mason.”

With a full pre-season under his belt and his injury woes hopefully behind him, Mount has the opportunity to reset and make a significant impact at Old Trafford. It is a crucial period in his career—a time to prove that he can be the game-changer United envisioned when they invested in his talents. He will next be in action against Brighton on Saturday in the Premier League.