Man United have unearthed an absolute gem in the form of Noussair Mazraoui, with the man from Morocco continuing to look good in the Europa League.
Manchester United Football Club continue to offer up a real mixed bag of both results and performances. Erik ten Hag’s side laboured to a 1-1 draw at home to FC Twente yesterday evening, struggling to get any sort of foothold in a game they should have dominated.
That’s just one win in their last nine European games for the Red Devils, who seem to now have some continental hoodoo hanging overhead.
However, once again, one man stood out; Noussair Mazraoui. The full-back from Morocco continued to show his class among his teammates’ struggles, with another accomplished performance from right-back.
The former Bayern Munich man was as solid as a rock defensively, finishing the game with 100% tackle success, winning the ball in all four attempts. On top of that, he boasted an impressive 84% pass accuracy, while also completing eight passes into the final third.
The 26-year-old full-back made three interceptions, six ball recoveries, two crosses and one chance created. It truly was a complete display.
Check out Statman Dave‘s statistical overview on Mazraoui vs FC Twente:
Noussair Mazraoui’s game by numbers vs. FC Twente:
84% pass accuracy
82 total touches
8 passes into the final third
6 ball recoveries
4 attempted tackles
4 successful tackles
3 interceptions
2 crosses
1 chance createdSo consistent. 👏 pic.twitter.com/jENw5cV5jf
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 25, 2024
With each passing game, Mazraoui looks like an even bigger bargain. Costing just £12.8m, United have added a supremely consistent performer to a starting line-up that often blows hot and cold. You always know you’re going to get a 6 or 7 out of 10 from the ex-Bayern Munich man, and no doubt that allows Ten Hag to sleep a little easier at night.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Mazraoui when he initially signed for the club, but to say he has exceeded all expectations is an understatement. He does not look out of place in this side and in fact, he’d be my early front runner for Player of the Year due to his consistency.
For Mazraoui, it’s now about fending off competition for his place in the side. Luke Shaw is almost fit again, meaning it’ll be a straight shootout between the Moroccan and Diogo Dalot for the right-back start. I’d personally give the edge to Mazraoui as things stand, but it can all change very quickly in football.
Hopefully, Mazraoui can continue with this excellent form. He’s building a real connection with Amad down that right-hand side and it’s a refreshing combination to watch.
Keep going, Noussair!
Do you think Noussair Mazraoui will be displaced in that right-back slot when everyone is back fit? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.