“I prefer…” Erik ten Hag reveals why Diogo Dalot is at left-back over Noussair Mazraoui

Erik ten Hag has explained why he has chosen to start Diogo Dalot at left back so far this season over Manchester United’s new signing, Noussair Mazraoui.

Manchester United have not had a first-team left-back available for selection since Luke Shaw came off at half-time against Luton Town on 18 February 2024.

With Tyrell Malacia having not played football in over a year, Erik ten Hag has had to fill the position using various players, ranging from Diogo Dalot to Toby Collyer and, at one point, Brazilian winger Antony.

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Since the beginning of this season, Diogo Dalot has slotted into the left-back role. He has experience in the position from previous seasons and his loan stint at AC Milan.

However, when the club announced the signing of Mazraoui from Bayern Munich, many thought he would instead be taking up the role. Mazraoui has started every single game, bar one, at right-back since he signed in mid-August.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of a tricky fixture against Aston Villa, Ten Hag was asked why he has continued to choose Dalot over Mazraoui in the position.

Dalot has drawn much criticism in the last few games, being at least partly at fault for goals conceded against both Tottenham and Porto.

“I think they (Mazraoui and Dalot) can both play [at left back]. But for the patterns, I prefer this moment to Diogo,” Ten Hag explained in reply. “But both, of course, are right full-backs.”

Further, Ten Hag added that once Shaw and Malacia return to the matchday squads, he feels the side will improve as a whole.

“And that is another area where we have a personal issue and already for-a long time we have a personal issue there. So definitely, we will improve as a team when we get a consistent left-footed left full-back.

“We are waiting for Luke Shaw, we are waiting for Tyrell Malacia to return in the squad because that will definitely help with consistent performance levels.”

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