- The Moroccan was reunited in the summer with the Dutchman, who came over from Bayern
- Before tonight’s substitution, he was playing on the left side of defence
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Erik ten Hag has shed light on his surprise move to start full-back Noussair Mazraoui at number 10 in Man United’s Europa League clash with Fenerbahce.
The Moroccan joined from Bayern Munich this summer to reunite with his former manager after spells at Ajax.
He has largely played on the left of defense in the early months of the season, but Ten Hag has shifted him to a role behind the striker for Thursday’s trip to Istanbul, in a switch that has raised some eyebrows.
The Dutchman explained his decision ahead of the crunch match in Europe.
He said: ‘We put Mazraoui in 10th position. I know him from the past at Ajax, sometimes I played with him there. Also as a full-back in our system he often plays in half spaces, so he is able to fulfill this task.
Erik ten Hag has explained his surprise move to start fullback Noussair Mazraoui as number 10
The Moroccan joined from Bayern Munich this summer to reunite with his former manager after spells together at Ajax
In the first months of the season he largely played on the left side of the defense
‘He is also a full-back and sometimes plays in the half spaces where he can play. He can press well and then we can see what is needed during the match.
‘We can maybe go with him in other positions and maybe, if necessary, in a more attacking position, a more attacking player in that position and it is also possible to bring in a more defensive midfield to bring in Casemiro. ‘
Club legend Paul Scholes was not exactly convinced by the erratic move.
“I’m confused by it,” he said. “In fact, I think his explanation there was confusing. I hope Mazraoui understands what to do better than I do, because I found that difficult to understand.
‘Sometimes at right back, sometimes at the front he can receive in the half turn.
“It sounds like he wants a presser, I’m pretty sure he can. I don’t see him as a number 10.’
Meanwhile, fellow expert Owen Hargreaves added: ‘I think it’s a huge surprise. Any United fan will see that and think: “Mazraoui is a 10?” Maybe he sees something that he knows Mazraoui from Ajax.
Club legend Paul Scholes was not exactly convinced by the erratic move
Meanwhile, Owen Hargreaves added: “I think it’s a huge surprise. Any United fan will see that and think: ‘Mazraoui is a 10?’ ‘
‘He has experience playing in midfield. We didn’t see that.
‘We saw him play as a full-back at Ajax, on the left or right. That was probably the most natural thing.
‘He must have something up his sleeve. We can’t see it because we’re not there. Hopefully it goes well, but I think it’s a huge shock for everyone.”
United have made a disastrous start to the season and currently sit 12th in the Premier League, with just eleven points from their first eight games.