Rio Ferdinand believes Manchester United should start the 2026-27 Premier League season with Noussair Mazraoui as first-choice right-back ahead of Diogo Dalot under new manager Michael Carrick.
The former United and England defender set out his view on the competition at right-back, arguing that Mazraoui has earned the right to begin the campaign in the starting XI after his displays at the recent World Cup.
Speaking on his podcast “Rio Ferdinand Presents”, and quoted by Moroccan outlet Hesport, Ferdinand said: “If I were in Michael Carrick’s position, I would choose Noussair Mazraoui to start the season ahead of Diogo Dalot, it’s as simple as that.”
World Cup form central to Ferdinand’s view
Ferdinand stressed that Mazraoui’s performances on the international stage had given him momentum that United should seek to harness at club level.
He said the Morocco defender had returned from the World Cup in outstanding condition, adding: “He came back with great confidence and at a high tempo. Sometimes major tournaments give players a technical and mental boost, and a smart coach knows how to make the most of that.”
Ferdinand argued that Mazraoui’s current level places him in a strong position going into the new campaign, provided Carrick is willing to reward form over status.
Qualities that suit a possession-based United
The 45-year-old highlighted Mazraoui’s composure and intelligence on the ball as key reasons why he should be trusted to start on the right of United’s defence.
He praised “the calmness under pressure” that he feels most distinguishes the Moroccan, as well as his ability to operate in tight areas and his confidence in possession. Ferdinand also underlined Mazraoui’s understanding of when to move into central positions and when to hold his wide role on the right flank.
According to Ferdinand, those attributes would be particularly valuable if Carrick looks to implement a style based on control and long spells of possession at Old Trafford. He suggested Mazraoui’s profile is well suited to a team seeking to dominate the ball and build from the back.
Dalot still “reliable” but competition must stay open
Ferdinand was careful to acknowledge Dalot’s contributions in recent seasons, describing the Portugal international as having delivered consistently solid performances for United.
He stressed that Dalot had been a “reliable” member of the squad and reiterated that his stance was not a criticism of the 27-year-old, but a reflection of how selection should work at elite level.
Ferdinand insisted that places in the starting line-up should never be guaranteed, saying: “Football depends on readiness and current level, and no player should be assured of his spot in the starting XI.”
He framed the right-back battle as a positive dilemma for Carrick, with both players pushing each other, but maintained that Mazraoui’s recent form gives him the edge going into the season.
Potential to become a key figure
Ferdinand concluded by stating that Mazraoui has, in his view, done enough to justify beginning the campaign as United’s first-choice right-back.
He suggested that if the defender can reproduce the level he showed at the World Cup in the Premier League, he could emerge as one of Manchester United’s most important players across the new season.
Ferdinand’s comments come as debate intensifies over how Carrick will shape his starting XI and tactical approach, with the right-back position now firmly under scrutiny ahead of the 2026-27 kick-off.
