Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand believes Noussair Mazraoui should begin the new Premier League season as the club’s first-choice right-back ahead of Diogo Dalot.
Ferdinand said he would have no hesitation selecting the Morocco international if he were in head coach Michael Carrick’s position, citing the defender’s impressive form following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
World Cup boost
According to Ferdinand, Mazraoui returned from the World Cup full of confidence and momentum, qualities he believes often follow strong performances at major international tournaments.
He argued that experienced coaches should capitalise on the psychological and technical lift players receive from competing on football’s biggest stage.
Calmness under pressure
Ferdinand praised Mazraoui’s composure in possession and his intelligence in difficult situations.
“What I admire most about Mazraoui is his calmness under pressure.”
The former England international highlighted the defender’s ability to operate in tight spaces, retain possession and recognise when to move into central areas or stay wide to provide balance for the team.
He believes those qualities would be particularly valuable if Manchester United aim to dominate possession and control matches.
Competition for places
While acknowledging Dalot’s importance to the squad, Ferdinand insisted that no player should be guaranteed a starting place.
He said competition is essential at the highest level and believes Mazraoui has earned the opportunity to start the season after his performances for Morocco.
Ferdinand added that if the 28-year-old can carry his World Cup form into the Premier League, he has the potential to become one of Manchester United’s key performers.
