Mаnсhеѕtеr Unіtеd hаvе bееn dealt a ѕеtbасk just dауѕ bеfоrе thеіr hіghlу anticipated Prеmіеr League 2025/26 ореnеr against Arѕеnаl. Key defender Noussair Mazraoui has officially been ruled out of the clash at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils kick off their new campaign this weekend by hosting one of the title favourites, Arsenal. With Mikel Arteta’s side looking stronger than ever, United were hoping to field their full-strength squad for the crucial encounter. However, according to a report from Manchester Evening News, manager Rúben Amorim will have to cope without one of his most trusted players.
Injury Blow for Mazraoui
Mazraoui’s absence comes as a result of an injury picked up during United’s pre-season tour in the United States. The Moroccan right-back was forced to sit out the friendly against Fiorentina last week, and his recovery has not progressed quickly enough for him to be ready in time for the Arsenal match.
While the injury itself is not considered severe, the club’s medical team has advised against rushing him back into action. Mazraoui is currently working on regaining full match fitness through an individual training programme at Carrington, which includes extensive gym work and light ball exercises.
Expected Return Timeline
The good news for United fans is that Mazraoui’s layoff is not expected to be long-term. Sources close to the club suggest that the 27-year-old could be back in full training within the next two weeks. If all goes according to plan, he may return to action before the end of August, potentially in time for United’s early-season fixtures against mid-table opposition.
Mazraoui, who joined United to provide both defensive stability and attacking support down the right flank, is seen as a key component in Amorim’s tactical plans. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, especially against a dangerous Arsenal attack featuring the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
Who Will Replace Him Against Arsenal?
Without Mazraoui, Amorim has two main options to fill the right-back role. Diogo Dalot, who has been a consistent presence in the squad, is the most likely choice due to his experience and defensive discipline. Alternatively, the manager could deploy Amad Diallo in a more advanced wing-back role, offering extra pace and attacking width.
Whісhеvеr орtіоn Amorim сhооѕеѕ, Unіtеd wіll nееd tо be at their dеfеnѕіvе best tо contain Arsenal’s hіgh-tеmро, possession-based game. The absence of Mazraoui makes the task more challenging, but with the Old Trafford crowd behind them, the Red Devils will be eager to start their season with a statement win.
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