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Noussair Mazraoui receives fitness boost ahead of Morocco’s World Cup opener

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Manchester United full-back Noussair Mazraoui is preparing to feature in his second World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico.

The 2026 World Cup kicks off tonight when Mexico hosts South Africa. There won’t be any Manchester United players involved in the opening fixture, but that won’t be the case for other fixtures.

There are 12 United players at the tournament, excluding the departing Casemiro and Ederson, who is set to arrive at Old Trafford after the World Cup.

One player looking to make more World Cup history is United right-back Noussair Mazraoui, who plays on the opposite flank for Morocco due to Achraf Hakimi being their best player.

Noussair Mazraoui warms up with Morocco
Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP via Getty Images

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Noussair Mazraoui in contention for World Cup despite injury scare

Mazraoui appears to have overcome injury concerns after falling awkwardly on his shoulder during a friendly with Norway.

This instantly put Mazraoui’s participation in the tournament in doubt.

According to ManUtd.com, Mazraoui has returned to training after working in the gym as a precaution. He has been carefully assessed by the Moroccan national team’s medical staff.

This means the 28-year-old is in contention to face Brazil in Morocco’s opener on Saturday night.

The Moroccans will also face Scotland and Haiti in Group C.

United will be keeping a close eye on Mazraoui throughout the tournament, hoping he doesn’t return for pre-season with any injuries or niggles.

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Noussair Mazraoui helped make history at 2022 World Cup

At his first-ever World Cup in Qatar, Mazraoui played a vital part in a magical run where Morocco became the first African nation ever to reach the semi-finals.

Mazraoui, who missed call-up to the 2018 World Cup, featured in five matches during the tournament four years later.

That means Mazraoui will go into this tournament as one of Morocco’s most experienced players.