As Manchester United took on Fenerbahce in the UEFA Europa League, manager Erik ten Hag’s decision to deploy outside defender Noussair Mazraoui in the number 10 role raised a few eyebrows. However, it was clear that the move was not a surprise to those within the squad.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana, who played alongside Mazraoui at Ajax, testified that the move was “pragmatic” and not a departure from the initial plan. “He used to play there when he was younger,” Onana explained, “so I think, sometimes, we have to be pragmatic with the red cards and injuries. Sometimes, players need to step up. That’s what Mazraoui did and he was brilliant for the team because the team needed him there and I’m happy with him.”
Similarly, opposing manager Jose Mourinho, who was well-prepared for the move, saw it as a natural progression. “The situation with Mazraoui, for you was maybe a big surprise. But not for us because Sofyan Amrabat told me Mazraoui can play in this position. He did it a lot with Erik ten Hag in Ajax. He has the qualities. He’s not Bruno but he has the legs to press,” Mourinho revealed.
Mazraoui’s versatility was on full display during the match, as he pressed high up the field and even provided an assist for Christian Eriksen’s goal. His performance warranted praise from Onana and others, with the goalkeeper describing him as “brilliant for the team.”
Despite the initial skepticism, the move ultimately paid off, and the Red Devils emerged victorious. As the dust settles, it is clear that ten Hag’s decision was a clever one, and that Mazraoui’s versatility is an asset for the team. The experiment may have raised a few questions at kickoff, but it ultimately proved to be a shrewd move from the manager.
