Ruben Amorim Lavishes Praise on Mason Mount Following Impressive Brace Against Athletic Club

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim has showered praise on Mason Mount following his impressive performance off the bench, where he scored twice in a 4-1 victory over Athletic Bilbao on Thursday, securing their spot in the Europa League final.

Mount, who was brought on in the second half, made an immediate impact by netting the equaliser just ten minutes after his introduction, and he added another goal during stoppage time, helping the team to a 7-1 aggregate triumph and a final match against Tottenham Hotspur.

The England international joined United in 2023 but has faced challenges with a number of injuries this season, including a head injury in September that kept him sidelined for over a month, as well as a muscle issue in December that delayed his return until March.

The 26-year-old scored his first Premier League goal of the season in Sunday’s thrilling 4-3 defeat against Brentford, and he became the first United substitute to score twice in a European knockout fixture since David Beckham achieved the feat against Real Madrid in 2003.

“I’m absolutely delighted for him. He’s a phenomenal player. He puts in a tremendous amount of effort and possesses exceptional skill,” Amorim said during his post-match press conference.

“When you see someone like Mason putting in the hard yards every day, maintaining a healthy diet, and taking ice baths, it’s only natural to want to support him.

“He fits perfectly in this role as he can play in midfield but also has the stamina to operate like a winger.”

Forward Rasmus Hojlund, who netted United’s third goal, commented on Mount’s perseverance in overcoming his injury setbacks, stating he did not deserve the negative scrutiny he had received.

“He’s been receiving a lot of criticism due to his injury setbacks, but he’s remained positive, striving to help the team and continuously working on getting fit,” he remarked to TNT Sports.

“His sole aim has been to get back on the pitch and … achieve what he managed to do today.”

United will clash with Spurs in the Europa League final on 21 May at San Mames Stadium in Bilbao, the home turf of Athletic.