Mazraoui Returns Ahead of Arsenal Clash as United’s Right-Back Debate Intensifies

Manchester United right-back Noussair Mazraoui returned to Manchester on Monday night and resumed full training on Wednesday, putting him firmly in contention for Sunday’s clash against Arsenal. The timing could hardly be better for Michael Carrick, who welcomes a major boost ahead of another high-profile Premier League encounter.

United’s injury list is relatively short, with only Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee sidelined after missing Wednesday’s session.

Mazraoui has earned a reputation at Old Trafford as a true “Swiss Army knife.” Over the past season and a half, he has played five different positions under three managers, even featuring as a No.10 under Erik ten Hag. Regardless of role, his performances have been consistently reliable—rarely spectacular, but almost always effective.

During the Africa Cup of Nations, Mazraoui was deployed at left-back due to Morocco’s wealth at right-back in Achraf Hakimi. He logged 628 minutes, helped neutralize several dangerous attackers, including United teammate Bryan Mbeumo, and played a key role in Morocco’s run to the final.

Back at United, competition for places remains fierce. Diogo Dalot’s display in the 2–0 win over Manchester City raised questions, particularly after a controversial early challenge on Jérémy Doku that narrowly avoided a red card.

Referees’ chief Howard Webb later defended the decision, explaining that the challenge lacked sufficient force and intensity to warrant VAR intervention. As a result, Carrick now faces a genuine selection dilemma.

Mazraoui’s freshness remains a concern after two 120-minute matches at AFCON, while Dalot’s experience—especially his role in Carrick’s first win over Arsenal as United manager—could work in his favor.

At center-back, Harry Maguire is expected to start again, providing vital aerial presence against Arsenal’s dangerous set pieces. Goalkeeper Sander Lamens may also prove decisive, as United seek greater authority in the box following issues in their previous meeting with Arsenal.