Michael Carrick singles out Mazraoui after AFCON return

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·1 febbraio 2026

Michael Carrick singles out Mazraoui after AFCON return

Morocco full-back quickly settles back in at Carrington

Michael Carrick singles out Mazraoui after AFCON return

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Noussair Mazraoui returned to Manchester United training after AFCON 2025, with Michael Carrick praising his attitude and fitness.

Morocco defender Noussair Mazraoui has rejoined Manchester United training at Carrington following demanding international spell at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.

Mazraoui came close to lifting the trophy,but Morocco suffered painful 1-0 extra-time defeat to Senegal in the final.

Carrick confirmed that Mazraoui has come back in strong mental state and quickly settled back into the squad after the emotional end to Morocco’s campaign.

🚨👀 Carrick on Mazraoui: “Yeah he’s come back well, Nous. It was a difficult one, obviously, on the back of the final and how it panned out. “[He had] a few days to digest that then back in and around it. He’s been fantastic in and around the group and around training.
– sabato 31 gennaio 2026

Carrick praises “Fantastic” professionalism

Speaking to Manchester United’s media team, Carrick said Mazraoui has been excellent since returning from international duty.

He admitted the final was difficult for the player but praised the way he responded.

Carrick explained that Mazraoui was given few extra days of rest considering the physical and mental effort he made during the tournament where he played all seven match for Morocco.

The United boss described the full back as “fantastic” around the group and in training showing strong professionalism despite the heartbreak of missing out on the AFCON title.

🗣️ Carrick on Mainoo: “He's a joy to watch. He's so young, Kobbie and he's had some real highs, he's had some disappointments, that's natural. I was similar myself when I was young when I came through.
– sabato 31 gennaio 2026

Tactical value

Carrick believes Mazraoui’s presence strengthens the squad and provides more tactical flexibility.

The 28 year-old signed in summer 2024 was brought in as versatile option capable of playing on both flanks.

With United shifting back toward traditional back four, Mazraoui’s strength in one on one defending and his calmness on the ball make him valuable fit.

He also offers defensive security as questions continue around other full-back options including Diogo Dalot.

Injuries in the squad could also open the door for Mazraoui to earn minutes on the left side helping manage the workload of key players such as Luke Shaw.