Ruben Amorim’s side lost again in the Premier League, this time, at the hands of Newcastle United – who beat them 4-1.
A Geordie masterclass on Sunday evening at St James’ Park ensured yet another miserable weekend for Manchester United fans in the Premier League.
United were dominated by Newcastle, and that was well and truly reflected in the 4-1 scoreline. A second-half mauling ensured Ruben Amorim’s side suffered their 16th loss of this Premier League season. A now joint record.
It’s safe to say Amorim’s side are suffering. Some, in particular, more than most.
Noussair Mazraoui is struggling as a centre-back
Noussair Mazraoui was undeniably one of United’s star performers at the beginning of the season, but the Moroccan has looked a shell of himself as of late.
A big part of this, in our opinion, is his transition from right-back to right-centre-back.
Granted, Amorim had to tweak positions when he came into the frame at Manchester United. His system is drastically different to that of Erik ten Hag’s.
But the defender is a player that’s fallen victim to this drastic change. Mazraoui was electric when he first arrived – but he’s been on a decline ever since.
His performance against Newcastle was a testament to this. It was arguably Mazraoui’s worst-ever game in a Red Devils shirt.
| Stat | Value |
| Touches | 37 |
| Accurate long balls | 1/2 (50%) |
| Dispossessed | 0 |
| Tackles won | 1/4 (25%) |
| Blocks | 1 |
| Clearances | 1 |
| Headed clearance | 1 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
| Recoveries | 1 |
| Dribbled past | 1 |
| Duels won | 5 |
| Duels lost | 4 |
| Aerial duels won | 1/4 (25%) |
Naturally, United’s defensive injury woes have somewhat forced the Moroccan into this role – but even United’s head coach is confused as to where he can actually perform best.
Ruben Amorim doesn’t know Mazraoui’s best position yet
Before the Manchester derby last weekend, Amorim admitted he doesn’t know Mazraoui’s best position.
“It’s hard to see the best position,” Amorim said. “His background is like a full-back, in a defence of four.
“So in our way of playing, he can play in different positions. I can see him as one of the defenders in this moment, because of his quality, he can defend.
“He can play one against one, defending, attacking. So I’m seeing him with a future to play as a wing-back and as a centre-back.”
Mazroaui thrives at right-back, so should be played right-wing back at the very least. That being said – we’re sure injuries have a huge say un this at the moment
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