Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, explains his surprising choice of attack against Fenerbahce.

Because Bruno Fernandes was suspended, a spot in the team became available. However, right back Mazraoui was chosen to start, even though Amad Diallo and Antony were also available. The game in Istanbul ended in a 1-1 draw.

Man United’s game-changing goal in Turkey was helped by Mazraoui. Ten Hag talked about his plans for the game ahead of time, saying that the 26-year-old can play in a more advanced position.

“We had to come up with something because Bruno is hurt and can’t play right now.” The boss told TNT Sports, “We’ve made some changes and a different set-up because we want to keep things the same.” This is because some of our players had to quickly get to West Ham on Sunday.

“There is [Christian] Eriksen, Manuel Ugarte as a 6, and Nous Mazraoui as a 10. From Ajax, I know that I sometimes played him there. This is something he can do because, in our scheme, as a full-back, he plays in the half spaces. He has the ability to press well.

When Man United tied Fenerbahce, Mazraoui played as a number 10.

“We can see during the game what is needed, so we maybe go with him in another position and maybe, if needed, he can play a more offensive position and it’s also possible to bring Casemiro in.”

But after the game, Andre Onana, the goalie for Man United, said that Mazraoui was “brilliant for the team” for how he played against Fenerbahce.

“He worked hard for us.” “He’s good, and we’re happy with his work,” Onana said. He played there when he was younger, so I think we have to be realistic sometimes, like when someone gets hurt or gets a red card.

“So players need some time to get better. And Mazraoui did that. He was great for the team because they needed him there, and I’m happy with him.

Mazraoui’s part doesn’t surprise Mourinho

Jose Mourinho, the head coach of Fenerbahce, also talked about the decision after the game. The Portuguese coach said he was “not surprised” that Mazraoui was used as an attacker in the European game.

“With Mazraoui, things may have come as a big surprise to you,” the boss of the home team said. “But not for us, because Sofyan Amrabat told me that Mazraoui can play there.”

“He did it a lot with Erik ten Hag at Ajax.” He has the right traits. “He’s not Bruno, but he has the legs to press.”

Fernandes will be able to play in Sunday’s Premier League game against West Ham United, but Mason Mount, Kobbie Mainoo, and Toby Collyer, three other midfielders, may not be able to play.

Since joining the Red Devils from Bayern Munich in the summer, Mazraoui has been an important player. He has played 12 times in all categories and set up one goal.