Manchester United experienced one of the best transfer seasons this time. A change in the top-level management saw some of the big talents arriving at Old Trafford. Some players also left to make space for these signings. Despite all the arrivals, the Red Devils have made a poor start to the 2024-25 campaign. They lost the FA Community Shield match against Manchester City. This was followed by back-to-back defeats in the English Premier League ahead of the international break.
Despite all these upsets, there are some positive signs in the camp. Manchester United brought a new full-back. Noussair Mazraoui left Bayern Munich to join his former manager Erik ten Hag. Mazraoui has shown some positive signs and is getting all the praise. He was at Ajax and has already played under the Dutch manager. Here is a look at some of the visuals that show how the Moroccan full-back has settled into Manchester United’s backline.
Occupying the right-back spot
Following Mazraoui’s arrival, Aaron Wan-Bissaka was sold to West Ham United. This means that Ten Hag has two options in the right-back spot. Diogo Dalot was a standout performer for the Red Devils in the 2023-24 campaign. However, with no left-backs available, Dalot plays as the left-back. As of now, Noussair Mazraoui has started in every match as the right-back.
The 26-year-old has given some solid performances in the backline. Diogo Dalot likes to go forward, meaning that one full-back has to remain along with the two centre-backs. Mazraoui has made some crucial defensive contributions by making a few interceptions. His defensive contributions also include a few recoveries in the attacking half. Mazraoui has made a couple of dangerous recoveries for the team. These recoveries often lead to a goal-scoring chance. Manchester United lack that creative edge. Finding the back of the net from these recoveries can be a big boost for the Red Devils.
How Mazraoui assists Dalot?
Nowadays, managers are opting for an inverted full-back. Erik ten Hag has given this responsibility to Diogo Dalot. He often takes central positions to receive the ball. This means the remaining three defenders play as a back three on a few occasions. With Dalot playing a more advanced role, Mazraoui stays at the back. The Moroccan has also taken central positions but not like Dalot. This has allowed the Portuguese to contribute more to the attack.
Diogo Dalot has made more progress with the ball. Mazraoui has tried to find the winger on his side, while Dalot has attempted more passes to the penalty box. However, Noussair Mazraoui has an assist to his name. He created the goal against Brighton.
More to come
Manchester United fans will be eager to see more progression with the ball. Mazraoui is a good dribbler with the ball. Most of his runs start inside the defensive half. Noussair often gets into good crossing positions. He runs behind the defenders to attempt a cut-back. This is what the fans will demand more in the season.
Erik ten Hag might have selection problems once Luke Shaw is fit. Noussair Mazraoui’s impressive start will surely help him to retain a spot in the playing 11.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine