Mazraoui scores for Morocco; Carrick urged to use him at left-back

The 28-year-old full-back delivered a decisive performance for Morocco, securing a brilliant individual goal during their victory over Gabon. Although Noussair Mazraoui frequently occupies a secondary role behind Diogo Dalot in Michael Carrick’s Manchester United setup, he remains a cornerstone of his national team's defense.

Mazraoui featured prominently as the Atlas Lions launched their African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a confident 2-0 home win on Friday. Despite being naturally positioned as a right-back, he regularly operates on the left for Morocco to accommodate Achraf Hakimi, the Paris Saint-Germain star widely regarded as the world's best in that role.

Tactical choice validates Mazraoui's form

Coach Mohamed Ouahbi maintained this tactical arrangement even with Hakimi unavailable, selecting Anderlecht youth Ali Maamar for the right-back slot instead. The decision proved effective, as Mazraoui anchored a stellar display culminating in an exceptional opening goal in the 36th minute.

The former Ajax and Bayern Munich player bypassed an opponent before creating a shooting angle from the edge of the penalty area. While the strike lacked overwhelming power or pinpoint precision, it successfully evaded the Gabon goalkeeper, earning Mazraoui significant praise for a solo effort created from minimal space.

Squad depth issues at Old Trafford

At club level, INEOS failed to acquire reinforcements for the left-back department, leaving Carrick with limited options when Luke Shaw was absent earlier this month. The manager turned to Patrick Dorgu, whose defensive contributions have not been convincing.

Mazraoui has demonstrated productivity at both ends of the pitch when deployed on the left, suggesting he is United’s most reliable backup for Shaw. This versatility contrasts with Harry Amass, who remains out of contention after receiving no playing time under Carrick.

Carrick may still harbor reservations about Mazraoui following his display in the Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton. However, the Moroccan’s experience and defensive capabilities place him above Dorgu in the hierarchy for the left flank.

Shifting Mazraoui to the left would expose Dalot by removing his primary backup at right-back. Yet, Leny Yoro tested that position during pre-season, offering a potential solution Carrick could revisit later in the campaign.