Manchester United angry with Morocco for refusing to allow Noussair Mazraoui play against Bournemouth | OneFootball

Manchester United have been angered by Morocco’s refusal to allow Noussair Mazraoui play against Bournemouth on Monday. 

FIFA announced earlier this month that clubs needed to release players for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from December 15, rather than 14 days before the tournament. 

While Cameroon and Ivory Coast allowed Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo to stay for Monday’s match, Morocco rejected United’s plea for Mazraoui. 

ESPN claims Red Devils expected to have the 28-year-old available and escalated the issue to FIFA after their initial request was rejected. 

However, the governing body did not force Morocco to back down. 

United were angered that the Atlas Lions prioritised a training session over an important Premier League game. 

In the absence of Mazraoui and injured centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire, manager Ruben Amorim was forced to select Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Luke Shaw in a back three. 

The trio endured a difficult outing against Bournemouth, conceding four goals in a 4-4 draw. Despite the stalemate, United are sixth in the Premier League.

They visit Aston Villa this weekend. Villa are flying high under manager Unai Emery after winning nine of their last 10 top-flight matches.