Manchester United coach Michael Carrick has provided an update on Noussair Mazraoui's fitness, confirming that the Moroccan international has yet to fully recover from a knock sustained while representing his country. Mazraoui sustained the injury during Morocco's encounter against Lesotho in the qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The defender was forced to leave the pitch before the final whistle, raising concerns about his physical condition.
Carrick explained that the club would need to wait before determining when Mazraoui could return to action. "Mazraoui came in with a knock and hasn't fully recovered yet, so we'll have to wait and see how he is," the Manchester United coach said. The club is monitoring the right-back's recovery as it assesses his readiness to return to competitive football. Carrick did not provide a specific timeline for his comeback, leaving his availability for Manchester United's upcoming fixtures uncertain.
Following the incident, Mazraoui returned to Manchester United to continue his recovery and undergo further assessment. His return to the English club has allowed its medical staff to monitor his progress before determining when he can resume full training. The injury came during Morocco's international campaign as the Atlas Lions continued their preparations and qualification efforts for the next edition of the continental tournament.
Mazraoui's early departure from the match against Lesotho meant that his involvement with the national team was cut short. The defender's situation also places Manchester United in a position where it must assess his fitness before deciding whether he can be included in upcoming matchday squads. The club will continue to monitor his condition, with his return depending on how he responds to recovery.
Mazraoui has established himself as a versatile defensive option, capable of playing at right-back and across other positions in the back line. His defensive awareness, mobility, and ability to contribute to build-up play make him a valuable option for Manchester United. His absence, should it continue, could therefore affect the club's defensive selection as it prepares for its next fixtures.
However, Carrick's latest comments suggest that the immediate priority remains assessing the player's condition rather than setting a return date. Mazraoui is also an important member of the Moroccan national team, having featured in major international competitions and contributed to the Atlas Lions' defensive structure. His fitness will remain a point of attention as the national team looks ahead to its upcoming commitments.
For now, neither a definitive return date nor confirmation of his availability for Manchester United's next match has been provided. The club will wait for further progress in his recovery before making a decision on his return to action. According to Chaimae Bouaichi, the update was provided on October 9, 2026.
Key points
- Manchester United coach Michael Carrick provides an update on Noussair Mazraoui's fitness.
- Mazraoui sustained an injury during Morocco's encounter against Lesotho.
- The club will continue to monitor his condition before making a decision on his return to action.
