Noussair Mazraoui is a Beacon of Hope in Manchester United’s Darkest Moments

Dark clouds have descended over Old Trafford, where Manchester United find themselves breaking records for all the wrong reasons. In October, the Red Devils endured their worst start to a Premier League season since the dismal days of 1986-87.

Yet, with every sombre chapter, there lingers a faint echo of hope—an ember of resilience that refuses to be extinguished.

Luxembourgish American photographer Edward Steichen once captured this enduring spirit, saying:

“There is only one optimist. He has been here since man has been on this earth, and that is man himself. If we hadn't had such a magnificent optimism to carry us through all these things, we wouldn't be here. We have survived it on our optimism.”

In United’s current narrative, who embodies that optimism? The answer lies in newly appointed head coach Ruben Amorim. The charismatic Sporting manager won’t step onto the Old Trafford sideline until the Primeira Liga pauses for the international break, with his arrival eagerly anticipated on November 11—just one day after Sporting’s match against his former club Braga.

Until then, the faithful cling to a familiar hero: club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has taken on the role of interim manager. His tenure may be brief, but it’s a nostalgic interlude that carries weight, as his coaching future with the club will soon be decided.

Amidst the swirling uncertainty, a beacon of hope shines on the pitch: Noussair Mazraoui. The Moroccan defender, despite only arriving in Manchester this summer, has swiftly become a crucial figure in United’s campaign. In a season marred by disjointed performances and instability, Mazraoui’s moments of brilliance have provided much-needed steadiness going forward.

As one of the club’s newest Muslim recruits, Mazraoui carries more than just the weight of expectation. His faith deeply influences his discipline, work ethic, and the humility with which he conducts himself both on and off the pitch. At a time when United need to move away from individualism to recapture the collective spirit that defined the Sir Alex Ferguson era, Mazraoui’s character—rooted in Islamic values—could set the tone for the transformation the club craves.

The struggles of United’s defence have become an all-too-familiar saga. Injuries have plagued the full-back positions for over a year. Luke Shaw has endured long periods on the sidelines, with his last Premier League appearance coming against Luton Town on 18 February. Tyrell Malacia hasn’t featured since May 2023. Both are expected to be available for Amorim’s selection process, but their return will be phased, given their lengthy absence from competitive action.

For Mazraoui, this period of upheaval presents an opportunity to build on his momentum at left-back. Under Van Nistelrooy, the former Bayern Munich player has switched to the left flank, allowing Diogo Dalot to occupy his preferred right-back role. In contrast, under Erik ten Hag, Mazraoui was primarily deployed on the right, making ten appearances before the Dutch manager’s departure.

Mazraoui’s versatility is one of his greatest strengths. Although he is a right-footed full-back, he is equally adept on either side of the defence. This flexibility was aptly highlighted by sporting director Dan Ashworth in August, who described Mazraoui as “a dynamic, attacking full-back who can play on either side of the defence.”

Amorim’s appointment is expected to bring abrupt tactical changes, with many analysts predicting a shift to a 3-4-3 formation. For Mazraoui, this new system could offer further chances to showcase his adaptability and attacking flair as United embark on a fresh journey under new leadership.

Once Luke Shaw regains full fitness, he will provide healthy competition for the Moroccan. The left flank could become even more dynamic, with options such as Antony or Garnacho potentially being deployed as wing-backs if Amorim chooses to use them there as opposed to the attacking outlets behind main man Rasmus Højlund.