Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount is enduring a difficult season, having struggled to replicate the form that made him one of the club’s standout players in the previous campaign. Although Mount scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists in the Premier League last season, he has managed just three goals and two assists in 22 appearances so far this season, leading to his demotion from the starting lineup.
This decline in form has sparked debate among fans over Mount’s ability to perform at the highest level. Some fans have suggested that the player’s performances have been affected by contract negotiations, as he has rejected offers of a renewal that he felt did not reflect his status as a regular starter for club and country.
However, the root of Mount’s struggles on the pitch this season seems to be related to his role in the team. Under new manager Graham Potter, Mount has been asked to play a deeper, more defensive role, which has limited his ability to make an impact in the attacking third of the pitch.
Mount’s strengths lie in his ability to receive the ball on the turn and run straight at defenders, causing chaos and uncertainty in the opposition’s defence. But this season, he has struggled to get into the right areas to attack and has not displayed the same energy and creativity that made him a standout player last season.
To get back to his best, Mount needs to rediscover his cutting edge in the final third. This means playing in a more advanced role where he can make full use of his attacking instincts and freedom to roam about and find space.
The arrival of Enzo Fernandez, who provides more midfield control, could be the key to unlocking Mount’s potential. If his energy is no longer needed in a deeper role, Mount may get the freedom to return further up the pitch and have a greater impact in the final third.
Finding a way to combine Mount and fellow attacking midfielder Joao Felix is crucial for Potter. Perhaps the two could combine as dual number 10s in a 3-4-2-1 setup that brought previous manager Thomas Tuchel success.
In conclusion, Mason Mount’s struggles this season are a combination of his role in the team and his own limitations in front of goal. If Chelsea can find a way to utilise his strengths and provide him with the freedom to attack, there is every reason to believe that Mount can return to his best form and once again be a key player for the club.
