Although Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen had an impressive season with Manchester United, it is predicted that newcomer Mason Mount will have a more prominent role alongside Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, forming a formidable trio for the Red Devils: the devil's triangle CBM.
In terms of playing style, the new number 7 at Old Trafford is quite different from the "iron man" Eriksen. While the Danish star excels in ball distribution and playmaking, the English player is known as a modern midfielder with exceptional physicality, capable of contributing both in attack and defense, effectively pressing and showcasing exquisite technique with unexpected penetrations into the penalty box. Essentially, Mason Mount is a number 8 in any formation, whether with two or three midfielders.
Mount will start alongside Bruno and Casemiro. With "the Mountain," Erik ten Hag has an upgraded version of Christian Eriksen. In this scenario, he will place the English star alongside Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in a midfield triangle, with the Brazilian player occupying the top position and playing deeper compared to the other two midfielders. In theory, Casemiro's role will be more defensive as he will be responsible for shielding the backline. However, reality may be different.
This is because, at that time, Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes will no longer be in the number 10 role but will be a slightly right-sided number 8, while Mount, who is also a number 8, will play on the left. Both players possess abundant energy and are highly active in pressing. This is why when Manchester United announced the signing of the former Chelsea midfielder, the Red Devils' fans felt as if they had a second Bruno Fernandes.
The duo will act as the first line of defense to counter opposition attacks. Once the opposition breaks through this line, they will face the midfield barrier - a true tank named Casemiro. If we connect the three lines on the pitch formed by Casemiro, Bruno, and Mount, it clearly creates a triangle that covers the central area. It's like a devil's triangle that can prevent the opponent's dangerous moves.
The trio will form a powerful attacking and defensive triangle. Not only are they strong in pressing, but this trio is also adept at counterattacks and creating scoring opportunities. Although Casemiro has been criticized for his passing ability, in the previous season with Manchester United, the Brazilian star proved his excellent ball distribution. Meanwhile, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes are both top midfielders in terms of their ability to create chances for teammates.
With just one long pass from Casemiro, a lightning-fast shot from Bruno or Mount, the opponent's goal will be put in a dangerous situation. That's why Erik ten Hag is trying to bring in a quality striker to take advantage of the opportunities created by these exceptional midfielders.
Erik ten Hag has chosen Mason Mount as his primary target in the summer transfer window and handed him the legendary number 7 shirt at Old Trafford, which demonstrates his belief in the English star. Ten Hag understands that he has found the perfect puzzle piece to elevate Manchester United in the upcoming season.
