Manchester United may be facing another injury setback as summer signing Noussair Mazraoui has pulled out of Morocco’s upcoming international matches due to fitness concerns. The 26-year-old right-back, who has been a regular starter since arriving at Old Trafford, was substituted at halftime in United’s goalless draw with Aston Villa on Sunday, with Victor Lindelof stepping in to cover his position.
Mazraoui's absence is a blow for both club and country. His national team, Morocco, confirmed that he will miss their crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Central African Republic on October 12 and 15. The injury raises questions about his fitness after a demanding run of games for United, where he has had little chance to rest. With limited rotation options available in the right-back position, Mazraoui has been heavily relied upon by manager Erik ten Hag, and the match against Villa was his 10th start of the season.
Despite being a new signing, Mazraoui has quickly become an essential player for Manchester United, offering both defensive solidity and attacking support. His injury now leaves United short of options in defense, adding to their growing list of injury concerns this season.
The extent of Mazraoui’s injury is still unclear, but it is significant enough to rule him out of international duty for the time being. Manchester United will be hoping that the injury is not severe and that Mazraoui can recover in time for their upcoming Premier League and Champions League fixtures, as his presence has been crucial in stabilizing the team’s backline.