Man United’s Mazaroui ‘Fantastic’ in Hakimi Role

Regaining Form

Morocco’s Walid Regragui has praised Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui for his impressive performance in the right-back role during their 2-0 win against Comoros in the Africa Cup of Nations opener. Mazraoui stepped in for the injured Achraf Hakimi, who was unable to make his comeback from a severe left-ankle sprain.
Regragi expressed his confidence in Mazraoui’s abilities, stating, “Without Hakimi, we could have done better, but Mazraoui is fantastic. I place him in the hierarchy as strong as Achraf, even if he has different qualities.” The 27-year-old Mazraoui contributed an assist for Brahim Díaz’s 55th-minute opener and helped Morocco secure a comfortable victory.

A Tough Decision Ahead

With Hakimi’s return to fitness imminent, Regragui may face a tough decision regarding the right-back position. Mazraoui’s impressive showing, along with left-back Anass Salah-Eddine’s excellent performance, has given the coach a dilemma. Both players created four goalscoring chances during the contest, and Regragui has stated that they will continue to play together until Hakimi is fully fit.
“We can continue with a left-footer on the left side and a right-footer on the right,” Regragui explained. “I have three super fullbacks; Salah-Eddine has gone up a level and is a great left back, Mazraoui is one of the best technically in his position.”

Group Stage Continues

Morocco’s Group A campaign continues with a showdown against Mali in Rabat on December 26, followed by a match against Zambia at the same venue three days later. Regragui’s team will look to build on their impressive start and secure a spot in the knockout stage.

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