Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick should be able to rely on Noussair Mazraoui in this weekend’s contest against Aston Villa.

Between injuries and AFCON commitments, the Moroccan has only made 15 appearances in the Premier League this season, seven as a starter.

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Nevertheless, the 28-year-old has often been consistent, making him a valuable asset to any manager, as he’s also capable of covering various roles in different systems. Last season, Owen Hargreaves noted that ‘Mazraoui plays amazing every time he plays’.

Noussair Mazraoui returns to Man Utd training

In Man Utd’s last outing against Newcastle, Carrick decided to drop Diogo Dalot in favour of the former Ajax and Bayern Munich star.

Unfortunately for Mazraoui, he was forced to leave the pitch in the 86th minute after picking up a knock, with Tyrell Malacia given a rare cameo. Four minutes later, William Osula scored the winner for the Magpies.

After the game, Mazraoui was spotted leaving the ground gingerly, sparking concerns over his condition.

 

But after more than 10 days filled with uncertainty, the official Man Utd website revealed that the full-back has returned to training alongside his teammates.

“The 28-year-old was part of the main group when our MUTV cameras were present for the latest session at our base, with build-up continuing to the weekend assignment at Old Trafford,” reads the official note.

“It is good news for head coach Michael Carrick, with the Midlanders one of our competitors for a top-four slot that would guarantee a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.”

Why Mazraoui’s return is vital for Man United

With Mazraoui available for selection, Carrick will at least have two senior full-backs to rely on. Dalot should reclaim his place at right-back, while the Morocco international would replace Luke Shaw at left-back if required.

 

The England international has been omnipresent in MUFC’s lineup this season, but he has been forced to leave the pitch in his last two outings against Crystal Palace and Newcastle.

Man Utd Full-Backs in 25/26 Appearances Minutes Goals Assists Noussair Mazraoui 155 615? 0 0 Luke Shaw 29 2,448? 0 1 Diogo Dalot 29 2,236? 1 3 Patrick Dorgu 24 1,468?

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Moreover, Patrick Dorgu still has several more weeks on the sidelines, thus paring the full-back department down to the bone.

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