Noussair Mazraoui: United ace suffers setback ahead of World Cup | OneFootball

Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui recently spoke about facing club team-mate Matheus Cunha at the upcoming FIFA World Cup. However, that match-up is now under serious threat.

Mazraoui was part of the Morocco team that stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, even defeating Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal on the way. While they were defeated by France in the penultimate step to the final, the Atlas Lions left a lasting impression across the world.

Mazraoui was also heavily involved in his nation’s triumphant run at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. The 28 year old has made it to Mohamad Ouhabi’s final squad for the upcoming World Cup, but he has now suffered a setback ahead of the mega event.

Mazraoui picks up injury

Mazraoui’s involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is in doubt after the player picked up an injury during their 1-1 draw against Norway on Sunday. The defender went down in the first half after feeling discomfort and had to be replaced by Youssef Belammari in the 29th minute.

Meanwhile, his substitution could be a precaution, according to talkSPORT, who report: “It is currently unclear the severity of the issue, with the decision to substitute Mazraoui potentially a precaution.”

The friendly against Norway was the African side’s final warm-up tie ahead of the World Cup. Morocco start the mega event with a game against Brazil on Saturday, 13 June, at the MetLife Stadium.

Mazraoui had recently revealed that he was relishing the prospect of locking horns with United team-mate Cunha in the upcoming weekend. He also revealed that he had discussed the matter with the Brazilian behind the scenes at Old Trafford. However, the Moroccan’s involvement in the game, as well as the World Cup, now hangs in the balance.

Meanwhile, Abde Ezzalzouli was also forced off in the game against Norway after a collision with Morocco team-mate Chadi Riad. The double injury blow will be a headache for manager Ouahbi, who can exercise one injury replacement for a player ruled out for the entire campaign up to 24 hours before the Brazil tie.

Mazraoui’s record at United

Mazraoui arrived at the Theatre of Dreams in the summer of 2024 from Bayern Munich and enjoyed a decent debut campaign, featuring in all but two games. He ended the season with three assists in 57 games across all competitions, operating in various roles in defence and midfield.

However, the Moroccan struggled with fitness issues in the 2025/26 campaign, missing 14 games for club and country through various injuries. He started five of Michael Carrick’s 17 games in charge, even operating at centre-back with aplomb in the 1-0 win over Chelsea.

Noussair Mazraoui Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

Final Thoughts

Mazraoui’s ability to slot in at left-back as well as right-back makes him an asset to United, especially with a long season ahead. Fans will also be keen to follow the Moroccan’s exploits at the World Cup and will hope that his injury is not serious.

Featured image Alex Pantling via Getty Images

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