World Cup’s Round of 16 fixtures have begun with Canada vs Morocco and France vs Paraguay kicking off the action.
For Man Utd, there was a learning in each game, as Morocco brushed aside Canada 3-0, and France overcame a gritty display from Paraguay.
In terms of Man Utd representatives, Noussair Mazraoui started again for Morocco and continued his good run of form.
While a new target emerged in another game amid Man Utd’s transfer troubles.
Which transfer targets do you NOT want Man Utd to sign?
Let's turn the transfer question on it's head, and give Jason Wilcox some advice…
Canada vs Morocco – Noussair Mazraoui’s resurgence peaks again
Mazraoui didn’t have the best of seasons at Old Trafford, firmly falling behind Diogo Dalot in the pecking order and struggling with injuries.
Morocco has always been a safe haven for him, but during this World Cup campaign, he has taken even that up a notch.
Mazraoui has been a defensive titan for his country, performing as a left-back who allowed Achraf Hakimi to play as a quasi-winger.
He was unbreakable against Canada as well, finishing the game with the most defensive contributions (14), which included a remarkable 10 clearances.
He is writing a new chapter in his resurgence with each game, and he found a new peak against Canada.
Paraguay vs France – Manu Kone should be a transfer target
Man Utd’s transfer troubles have seen them land just Ederson, with the pre-season set to begin in less than a week.
Mateus Fernandes and Elliot Anderson have joined their rivals, which means United need a hard pivot and a strong backup plan.
Which World Cup talent do you want Man United to target this summer?⚡️
Some real standout performers already, but have any convinced you that they should be United targets?
They could go two-for-two in Italy by exploring a deal for Manu Kone of AS Roma, who started ahead of Aurelien Tchouameni against Paraguay.
Kone completed the most passes (66), created one chance, had 87 touches, and expertly dealt with Paraguay’s borderline unfair physicality at times.
At 25, he is reaching his peak years, and he should be much cheaper than what Fernandes and Anderson cost.
If Tchouameni is reluctant to leave Madrid, United can do a lot worse than explore a deal for Manu Kone.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
