Official: Noussair Mazraoui called up by Morocco for Africa Cup of Nations | OneFootball

Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui has officially been called up by the Morocco national team ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, which is set to kick off later this month.

Mazraoui called up

While it was largely expected that Mazraoui would be part of Walid Regragui’s plans for the competition, his place in the team was only confirmed on Thursday afternoon.

He is part of a defensive group that also consists of Achraf Hakimi, Mohamed Chibi, Jawad El Yamiq, Romain Saiss, Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal, Nayef Aguerd, Adam Masina and Anass Salah-Eddine.

Morocco are hosting the tournament and are undoubtedly one of the favourites to snatch the title from defending champions Ivory Coast.

Mazraoui’s involvement will only strengthen the North African nation’s bid to emerge victorious.

After his start to the 2025/26 season was derailed by an injury, Mazraoui seems to be back in top form, with his recent performances massively helping United.

He was sensational earlier this week as United put Wolverhampton Wanderers to the squad in a 4-1 triumph at the Molineux.

The 28-year-old has made nine Premier League appearances for United this term.

United hoping to hold on to AFCON trio

Ruben Amorim has been optimistic about United’s chances of keeping Mazraoui, Amad (Ivory Coast) and Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon) for a little longer before they are allowed to leave for AFCON.

The United head coach confirmed that the club has been in negotiations with the respective federations over an arrangement that suits all concerned parties.

Mazraoui, Amad and Mbeumo were all in training on Thursday ahead of Monday’s clash against Bournemouth at Old Trafford.

This likely suggests that they will be available to face the Cherries. AFCON kicks off on December 21.

United were handed a boost last week when FIFA ruled that players could remain with their clubs until later, otherwise, Mazraoui, Amad and Mbeumo would have left already.

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