New Manchester United signing Mason Mount has revealed that Chelsea told him several months ago that he did not have a future at Stamford Bridge.
The 24-year-old England international completed a £55m move to Old Trafford on Wednesday, putting pen to paper on a five-year deal.
He became Manchester United’s first summer signing, ending his 18-year association with Chelsea. Before his move, there were rumours that he had rejected several offers from Chelsea and was desperate to leave Stamford Bridge.
However, Mount has clarified that contrary to popular belief, Chelsea pushed him out of the club.
Speaking to Man United’s media team in his first interview since his switch to Old Trafford, the midfielder revealed he was left under no illusions that his future lay away from West London.
“Several months ago, it became clear I wasn’t in Chelsea’s plans going forward, and once I knew United were involved, my decision was made up,” he told MUTV.
“Massive club, huge iconic players that have played here, and I wanted to be part of that from the beginning. Getting here early, ready for pre-season to start, was a main objective of mine as well.”
“It’s a huge club, but it’s also so close with everyone involved. It’s such a family, and I can feel that straight away.”
Mount was handed the club’s iconic 7 shirt, which was previously won by star names like Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham. During the interview, he revealed idolised several of the club’s players while growing up.
“So many iconic players have played for this club, and watching them as a youngster and also being a fan of them, it is very special to be here. This is what I’ve worked a long, long time for, and it is so exciting,” he said.
“I had a lot of idols. Ronaldo, you see the little video of me when I was younger. I loved watching him play. Becks [David Beckham] was also a massive inspiration of mine; I was in awe of his free-kick technique. You take bits of inspiration from different players.”
