Amorim confirms high risk that MU star may miss the World Cup

Man United's win against Newcastle was overshadowed by Mason Mount suffering another injury, which almost closes the door on his opportunity to participate in the 2026 World Cup.

Manchester United's 1-0 win over Newcastle on Boxing Day was incomplete as Mason Mount was injured once again, putting his 2026 World Cup hopes in serious jeopardy.

The English midfielder had to leave the pitch after the first half, replaced by young talent Jack Fletcher. This was only Mount's 23rd Premier League start since leaving Chelsea for Old Trafford in 2022. Coach Ruben Amorim confirmed Mount felt "a muscle issue" and was unable to continue playing. “He wanted to play in the second half, but we couldn't take the risk. The team has already lost too many players,” Amorim stated.

Mount's injury worsens Manchester United's personnel problemsas Old Trafford currently lacks Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, and Kobbie Mainoo due to injuries, while Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui are away on international duty at CAN 2025.

The only goal of the match was scored by Patrick Dorgu, securing a narrow win for the Red Devils despite Newcastle's dominance. However, Mount's injury dampened the joy of victory. Since joining Man United, the 26-year-old has struggled with fitness issues, missing many crucial periods and failing to meet expectations.

Notably, Coach Amorim surprised by abandoning his usual 3-4-3 formation in favor of a 4-2-3-1 setup. This change made United more solid defensively, but Mount's early exit disrupted the tactical plan. Still, Amorim praised 18-year-old Fletcher for his composed performance in the second half.

According to Sky Sports, Mason Mount may face a long-term absence, missing the early matches of 2026 when Coach Thomas Tuchel prepares to finalize England's World Cup squad. If this happens, Mount risks missing his first-ever World Cup, ending a turbulent year for the talented midfielder who has been plagued by injuries.