Manchester United player Mason Mount delivers his verdict after Arsenal defeat Manchester United (2-1) in the pre-season friendly match

With Mason Mount providing a brief comment on social media, Arsenal recovered from behind to defeat Manchester United 2-1 in a pre-season friendly in Los Angeles.

As Mason Mount searches for a new beginning at Old Trafford, his one-word response to Manchester United’s loss to Arsenal said volumes.

With his cause not assisted by injury, the former Chelsea midfielder had a poor debut season with the Reds. Though one topped off with a surprising FA Cup victory over Manchester City, several figures at the club are seeking for a fresh start following a difficult season overall.

Head coach Erik ten Hag, who has not only been retained but has signed a new long-term deal, is among them. Jadon Sancho, who declared the club had “found complete unity” as he signed his new contract, has also been reintegrated back into the squad following his public falling out with Ten Hag.

Mount, meantime, is trying to get back into the shape that made him a regular visitor to England’s Gareth Southgate. And Mount was eager to remain upbeat even if Arsenal lost 2-1 in Los Angeles, as he responded on social media following the game.

On Instagram, he captioned a picture showing himself being assisted to his feet by Casemiro: “Together”. This seemed to reflect the team’s cohesiveness both among the players and staff ahead of the next season.

He also showed Rasmus Hojlund a picture with message “Love it lads”. Ten Hag has since defended Mount, saying that injury makes it unfair to criticize him based on his first season at United.

Playing Mount on the right wing in the Arsenal game, the Dutch manager lauded the player’s flexibility and said, “You can’t judge his season since he was injured. Don’t pass judgment on him. But he will be a very good player for us when he is fit; we can use his adaptability.

“You need particular types in the squad, team players, multifunctional players he is one of the players who can play in several positions, he will help the team.”

But a few concerning ailments that surfaced during the Arsenal encounter could test United’s optimism. Early after United’s initial goal was scored, Hojlund was replaced; new signing Leny Yoro also had to leave the pitch.

Although neither ailment is thought to be severe, Ten Hag finds both troublesome as he gets ready for the Saturday, August 10 Community Shield game against City.