One forgotten Manchester United star is set for an increased role under Rúben Amorim, despite missing the entire pre-season tour with an injury.
Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the USA has been very positive, as Rúben Amorim has seen his side play well in three games against Premier League opposition, including a dominant performance against Bournemouth.
However, several first-team players have been unavailable for United, most notably an exiled quartet comprising Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, and Jadon Sancho, who were all left in England as the manager does not see a place for them in the squad next season.
Another player to miss out was Andre Onana; the Cameroonian picked up an injury before United’s first pre-season game against Leeds United, and he hasn’t played since, despite travelling with the squad to the United States. Altay Baynidir and Tom Heaton have played in his place, but some believe Baynidir is still seeking a move away from Old Trafford.
Joshua Zirzkee is also yet to feature for United in pre-season, having picked up another issue that is believed to be separate from his injury towards the end of last season. The Dutchman returned for the Europa League final, but clearly wasn’t fully fit as he didn’t play on the post-season tour in Asia.
Mazraoui set for increased role next season
Noussair Mazraoui’s last United appearance came against Leeds United at the start of pre-season, but the Moroccan hasn’t featured since due to picking up an injury against Daniel Farke’s side. Mazraoui no longer has a natural position on the side, but is set for an increased role next season.
The former Bayern Munich right-back has been included in Amorim’s new leadership group, comprising six players that the manager sees as leaders.
“Nous is in the group because he’s a character that I like,” said Amorim. “And I try to understand the dynamic of the group. Try to reach every space. They are the guys that are responsible to keep everyone in line.”
While he is set for an increased role off the pitch, Mazraoui could struggle for regular minutes on the pitch as he faces competition from Leny Yoro, who will no doubt step up again from last season after impressing in pre-season. Matthijs de Ligt could also be looking for game time on the right side of the back three if Harry Maguire nails down the central role.
Mazraoui played in 37 of the 38 Premier League matches last season, including games at centre back, right back, left back and even as an attacking midfielder in the Europa League for Erik ten Hag. His versatility, as well as his impressive attributes, make him a key part of the squad, but regular appearances could be difficult to come by.
Mazraoui’s importance can’t be forgotten
Mazraoui was one of United’s best players last season, but it was forgotten due to the impressive performances from Amad and Bruno Fernandes, even though the former Ajax defender was playing in a new role for the majority of the season.
However, his absence in pre-season has led some fans to forget how impressive he was last campaign. While Yoro will likely want a starting role, Mazraoui may have earned that spot last season, often saving United from embarrassing defeats, with the team losing by just one goal instead of three or four.
When Lisandro Martinez returns from injury, United will have six first-team defenders, all vying for a starting spot, excluding Tyler Fredricson, who has impressed when given a chance under Amorim.
Mazraoui’s versatility could see him start the season as the left-sided central defender, alongside de Ligt and Yoro, if he can prove his fitness ahead of the season opener against Arsenal.
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