Manchester United have reportedly been left frustrated and furious with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) after Noussair Mazraoui was barred from featuring in the dramatic 4-4 Premier League draw against Bournemouth on Monday night local time.
The Morocco FA refused to release the defender, citing preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, which begins on December 21 with Morocco facing Comoros in the opening match. United sources believe the decision was unnecessary, as Mazraoui would still have had a six-day window to join the national squad had he been allowed to play.
According to BBC Sport, Manchester United formally escalated the issue to FIFA in an attempt to obtain special clearance. However, the appeal was rejected, leaving the Moroccan federation’s decision intact and further inflaming tensions at Old Trafford.
United Feel Unfairly Treated After FIFA Appeal Rejected
Senior figures within Manchester United remain dissatisfied with the outcome, feeling the club was treated unfairly by both the Moroccan federation and FIFA. Club officials argue that Mazraoui was fully fit, had trained all week, and was expected to play a key role in what became a chaotic and physically demanding match against Bournemouth.
United believe Mazraoui’s absence weakened their defensive stability, particularly on the right side, where his versatility has been crucial under head coach Ruben Amorim. The match ended in a 4-4 draw after United surrendered multiple leads, a result that has since intensified scrutiny over the decision to withhold the defender.
The situation has once again highlighted the growing friction between clubs and national federations over player release regulations during major international tournaments.
AFCON 2025 Disrupts Manchester United’s Squad Plans
Mazraoui’s absence is part of a wider problem for Manchester United as AFCON 2025 removes several key players during a congested fixture schedule. Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Mazraoui have all departed to join their respective national teams, significantly weakening the right side of United’s preferred tactical setup.
Under Amorim, United have primarily operated in a 3-4-2-1 formation, with the right flank relying heavily on the combined contributions of Mazraoui, Amad, and Mbeumo. Their simultaneous unavailability has effectively dismantled that structure.
The club anticipated the disruption weeks in advance. Reports earlier this week suggested Amorim had already warned his squad that tactical changes were inevitable, and training sessions at Carrington reflected that reality.
Tactical Adjustments Already Underway at Carrington
In preparation for the Bournemouth fixture and the AFCON absences, Manchester United have been intensively working on an alternative 4-3-3 system during training. While initially considered a contingency plan, the formation change has now become a necessity.
With the trio officially unavailable, Amorim has little choice but to adapt his tactical framework to suit the players remaining at his disposal. The shift marks a significant departure from the system that defined his early months at Old Trafford.
Sources close to the club suggest Amorim sees the 4-3-3 as a way to restore balance, clarity, and defensive security during a critical stretch of the season.
Why the 4-3-3 Fits United’s Current Squad
The 4-3-3 formation is viewed internally as a more stable and coherent structure given the current squad limitations. A traditional back four provides clearer defensive responsibilities, reducing the reliance on specialist wing-backs who are no longer available.
In midfield, the trio allows Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount to operate in roles that better suit their natural strengths. Mainoo offers composure and positional intelligence, while Mount’s energy and pressing ability add balance. Bruno Fernandes, meanwhile, retains the freedom to dictate play without exposing Casemiro defensively.
This setup also improves spacing between the lines, making transitions safer and reducing vulnerability during counter-attacks—an issue that plagued United during the Bournemouth draw.
Attacking Adjustments Without AFCON Regulars
Up front, the presence of Benjamin Sesko provides United with a natural central striker capable of occupying defenders and creating space for teammates. His profile contrasts with the more fluid attackers Amorim previously deployed in the 3-4-2-1.
Matheus Cunha’s tendency to drift inside from wide positions helps offset the absence of left-footed creators like Amad. His movement allows United to maintain attacking unpredictability without relying on unavailable personnel.
Overall, the front three configuration offers greater structural discipline while still allowing individual creativity to flourish.
AFCON Setback Could Spark Long-Term Evolution
While AFCON 2025 has forced Ruben Amorim into reactive decision-making, the enforced tactical shift may ultimately benefit Manchester United. The 4-3-3 provides a clearer identity during a period of squad instability and could become a viable long-term option even after international players return.
For now, however, frustration remains the dominant emotion at Old Trafford. The club believes the handling of Mazraoui’s situation directly impacted a crucial Premier League match and exposed ongoing flaws in the international release process.
As Manchester United prepare for a series of high-stakes fixtures without several key players, the fallout from the Mazraoui decision serves as a reminder that battles off the pitch can be just as decisive as those on it.
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