Manchester United supporters were left puzzled by Erik ten Hag’s choice to field Noussair Mazraoui as a stand-in for suspended captain Bruno Fernandes in the match against Fenerbahce.
Fernandes was sidelined for one game following a red card in the previous match against Porto, leaving Ten Hag with limited midfield options due to injuries to Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and Toby Collyer.
Despite being a natural right-back, Mazraoui was positioned as a ‘number 10’, with Diogo Dalot shifting back to the right, Victor Lindelof in the center, and Lisandro Martinez at left-back.
The midfield featured Manuel Ugarte and Christian Eriksen, with Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho on the wings, and Joshua Zirkzee as the lone striker.
“At Ajax I played him there…”
Erik ten Hag explains why he’s starting Noussair Mazraoui at no.10 🗣️
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Explaining his decision, Ten Hag told TNT Sports, “I have played him in that position before at Ajax. He is versatile and can adapt to different roles.”
Regarding Mazraoui’s advanced midfield role, Ten Hag confirmed that the player was tasked with the responsibility, highlighting the team’s flexibility in tactics.
“Even though he is a full-back, he can contribute effectively in that position. We can make adjustments during the game based on the situation, whether to maintain an offensive approach or introduce a more defensive midfielder like Casemiro,” explained the Dutch coach.