Mason Mount, a former favorite of Chelsea, was “offered” the coveted number seven shirt at Manchester United by Erik ten Hag as a sign of how much the Premier League powerhouses desired him.

To allow Raphael Varane to take the number four and Alejandro Garnacho to wear the jersey left vacant by his hero Cristiano Ronaldo, it would have made sense for Mason Mount to inherit the number 19 shirt he wore at Chelsea.

The Red Devils agreed to a £55 million cost for a player who emerged as Erik Ten Hag’s top midfield target, at least in the eyes of many Manchester United fans.

The Daily Mail notes that while some people were surprised to learn that Mount would be wearing what is arguably the most recognizable shirt number in European football, Ten Hag’s decision to give his new signing the jersey made famous by Ronaldo, George Best, David Beckham, and Eric Cantona was part of a larger strategy.

Mason Mount receives a legendary Old Trafford jersey number.

It was a huge display of confidence in a guy who could have felt a little underappreciated because Chelsea let the academy graduate’s contract expire after just a year.

“Leaving the club where you were raised is never simple. However, Manchester United will offer a stimulating new challenge for the next stage of my career, says Mount, who reportedly turned down offers from both Arsenal and Liverpool in favor of joining Three Lions teammates Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw at Old Trafford.

“I am joining a squad that is incredibly powerful since I have competed against it. I am eager to take part in this team’s pursuit of significant prizes.

Another important aspect of Mount’s choice was the fact that Ten Hag was present.

The former Ajax manager will try to match the performance that saw the Champions League champion generate 29 goals or assists in 2021–2022.

14 goals and 15 assists, which is how many Bruno Fernandes produced in 2022–2023.

“Under Erik ten Hag, the club has advanced significantly,” Mount continues. After speaking with the manager in person and learning about his intentions, I was giddy with anticipation for the upcoming seasons. And I’m prepared to put in the necessary amount of effort.

“I have a lot of ambition. I am aware of what it takes to succeed and how fantastic it feels to win significant awards. I’ll do anything to have that happen at Manchester United once more.