Long before signing anyone in the 2023 summer transfer window, Liverpool had made it plain that they wanted Brighton’s Alexis MacAllister and Chelsea’s Mason Mount. The Reds were fortunate to sign Macca from the Seagulls, but due to unforeseen circumstances, Mount was unable to join the Reds and instead found himself in Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United after quitting his boyhood club.
Mount’s versatility made him an appealing prospect, and Liverpool believed they could sign him for a reasonable rate, given that he had only one year left on his Chelsea deal. Furthermore, the Blues were trying to sell players, opening the door for a prospective transfer.
Mount, on the other hand, had different ideas. His desire to join United was obvious, resulting in a hefty deal and a trip to Old Trafford. Liverpool, unwilling to stretch their budget, targeted RB Leipzig’s Dominik Szoboszlai, activating his release clause just hours before it expired. Szobo and Mount have had contrasting travels up to this point.
As the season progresses, Szoboszlai shines brightly in Liverpool’s midfield. His performances have given Liverpool’s playing style a new dimension, bringing excitement and free-flowing inventiveness into their game. Liverpool have maintained their status as a Premier League contender with the Hungarian master directing the midfield, thrilling spectators with visually beautiful football. The Athletic [subscription required] does an excellent job of juxtaposing the pair’s fates.
Mason is under increasing strain
On the other hand, if Mason Mount had played for Liverpool, the Reds’ midfield could have been just as effective. Mount’s decision to join Manchester United, on the other hand, has set him on a different path.
Following United’s troubles in the Premier League, his future at Old Trafford appears bleak. While Mount has tremendous skill, adjusting to his new circumstances in the midst of injury setbacks has been difficult. In nine appearances for United, he has only one assist, whereas Szobo has made the Liverpool midfield his own, scoring twice and assisting twice in 14 outings for Jurgen Klopp’s men.
In terms of summer transfer transactions, there is no doubt that Liverpool is now the happier party. The effortless integration of Szoboszlai into the squad, as well as his constantly exceptional performances, attest to Liverpool’s effective signing.
The disparity in fortunes between the two players demonstrates the success of Liverpool’s approach, and as the season progresses, the Reds can look forward to Dominik Szoboszlai’s continuous brilliance in their middle. Mason, you’re out of luck. This hue of red couldn’t be any worse than what you already have at OT.
