5 days Ago By Kieran Smith
Ruben Amorim’s side lost again in the Premier League, this time, at the hands of Newcastle United – who beat them 4-1.A Geordie masterclass on Sunday evening at St James’ Park ensured yet another miserable weekend for Manchester United fans in the Premier League.United were dominated by Newcastle, and that was well and truly reflected in the 4-1 scoreline.
A second-half mauling ensured Ruben Amorim’s side suffered their 16th loss of this Premier League season. A now joint record. Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty ImagesIt’s safe to say Amorim’s side are suffering.
Some, in particular, more than most. Noussair Mazraoui is struggling as a centre-backNoussair Mazraoui was undeniably one of United’s star performers at the beginning of the season, but the Moroccan has looked a shell of himself as of late.A big part of this, in our opinion, is his transition from right-back to right-centre-back.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty ImagesGranted, Amorim had to tweak positions when he came into the frame at Manchester United. His system is drastically different to that of Erik ten Hag’s.But the defender is a player that’s fallen victim to this drastic change.
Mazraoui was electric when he first arrived – but he’s been on a decline ever since. His performance against Newcastle was a testament to this. It was arguably Mazraoui’s worst-ever game in a Red Devils shirt.
StatValueTouches37Accurate long balls1/2 (50%)Dispossessed0Tackles won1/4 (25%)Blocks1Clearances1Headed clearance1Interceptions0Recoveries1Dribbled past1Duels won5Duels lost4Aerial duels won1/4 (25%)Noussair Mazraoui’s game vs Newcastle, via FOTMOB.Naturally, United’s defensive injury woes have somewhat forced the Moroccan into this role – but even United’s head coach is confused as to where he can actually perform best. Ruben Amorim doesn’t know Mazraoui’s best position yetBefore the Manchester derby last weekend, Amorim admitted he doesn’t know Mazraoui’s best position.
“It’s hard to see the best position,” Amorim said. “His background is like a full-back, in a defence of four.Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images“So in our way of playing, he can play in different positions.
I can see him as one of the defenders in this moment, because of his quality, he can defend.“He can play one against one, defending, attacking. So I’m seeing him with a future to play as a wing-back and as a centre-back.
”Mazroaui thrives at right-back, so should be played right-wing back at the very least. That being said – we’re sure injuries have a huge say un this at the moment.
