Latest news with #NoussairMazraoui
The Sun
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Daniel Munoz, Bryan Mbeumo and other winners of Dream Team's end-of-season awards for 2024/25!
ROLL out the red carpet and pop the champagne, it's time for Dream Team's end-of-season awards! We've got eight gongs to dish out in total so let's crack on. 9 BEST NEWCOMER Our first award goes to the most impactful new addition and so only players who graced Dream Team for the first time this season are eligible. A mention for Noussair Mazraoui who, despite Manchester United's woes, will finish the campaign as the sixth-best defender. The Morocco international got through a mountain of defensive work, making 177 tackles in all competitions - the highest tally among all players. For a while it seemed as if Marco Asensio would claim this award as he scored eight goals in the space of seven games soon after agreeing a loan move to Aston Villa in January. Unfortunately, the Spaniard's points dried up in the last two months of the season. And so our winner is Omar Marmoush! Man City's expensive January acquisition frustrated Dream Team bosses in the FA Cup final but he's otherwise impressed with eight goals and three assists at a rate of one goal involvement every 141.4 minutes since his transfer from Frankfurt. The Egyptian forward finishes the season with an average of 6.3 points-per-game and there's a feeling he could rack up big numbers in 2025/26. WINNER: OMAR MARMOUSH 9 SURPRISE PACKAGE Several players made our shortlist for this one with Jacob Murphy, Brennan Johnson and Chris Wood all having performed well above expectations. It would be fitting to give the award to a Nottingham Forest representative given their transformation from relegation battlers to Champions League hopefuls but there can only be one winner in the grand scheme of things. Daniel Munoz was the only defender who earned 300+ points this term, beating the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Josko Gvardiol, Pedro Porro and Virgil van Dijk to top the rankings in his position. This is an extraordinary achievement given Crystal Palace did not have European commitments to bolster their schedule. The Colombian wing-back was a beast in defence (17 clean sheets, 152 tackles) and a huge threat in attack (six goals, eight assists). It will be very interesting to see how he goes next season. 9 BEST VALUE-FOR-MONEY Munoz could have easily scooped this award too but we've decided to recognise the efforts of Morgan Rogers to share the love around. Having been a bit-part player in 2023/24, the ex-Middlesbrough midfielder established himself as one of Unai Emery's most trusted assets from the get-go this season. Rogers started the season at just £2.5m and was available even cheaper than that after a relatively slow start but he quickly became a fantastic enabler. Once he started converting his talent into points, he essentially became a must-have player as his bargain price allowed for heavy investment into the likes of Erling Haaland, Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer and Mohamed Salah. When all was said and done, Rogers racked up 318 points via 14 goals and 16 assists to finish as Dream Team's fourth-best midfielder. He certainly won't start at £2.5m next season! WINNER: MORGAN ROGERS 9 MOST OVERLOOKED This award goes to the player who, no matter how hard they tried, simply couldn't convince Dream Team managers they were worthy of a place in a competitive XI. For whatever reason, several players went overlooked by the vast majority of gaffers for months on end despite their undeniably impressive returns. Youri Tielemans spent most of the season among the highest ranked midfielders (thanks to his sizeable bonus point count) but his ownership remained modest throughout - perhaps because the aforementioned Rogers covered Villa's fixtures nicely. Elsewhere, only six players averaged more points-per-game than Jarrod Bowen (7.7) but most Dream Team bosses flat out refused to entertain the idea of recruiting anyone associated with West Ham. Our winner, however, is none other than Matheus Cunha. Granted, the Brazilian's disciplinary troubles were a concern but even when he was available and at his swaggering best, approximately 97% of gaffers were happy to go without him. Only Salah and Haaland averaged more points-per-game than Cunha in 2024/25 - an incredible statistic. One suspects he will appear in many, many more teams when he joins Manchester United. 9 DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH This award recognises a standout individual who thrived in Dream Team despite the broader failings of their team. The aforementioned Cunha and Bowen were among the nominees, as were several Tottenham players before victory in the Europa League final changed the entire complexion of their season. But Bruno Fernandes is clearly the most deserving winner. The Portuguese playmaker amassed 443 points (only Salah earned more) via 19 goals and 20 assists while representing a team that ultimately finished 15th in the league and no trophies to show for their extracurricular activities. Where would the Red Devils be without him? WINNER: BRUNO FERNANDES 9 THE BREXIT AWARD To qualify for the Brexit award, players must have nothing to do with Europe. In other words, only those who did not participate in the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League are eligible. Once again, Munoz is in the conversation but three players earned even more points than Palace's wing-back without European fixtures: Eberechi Eze, Bryan Mbeumo and Alexander Isak. Newcastle's star striker notched the most points (340) of the lot having scored 27 goals but given the spirit of the award is about defying schedule disadvantages, we believe Brentford's talisman is most worthy. Whereas Isak and Eze benefited from domestic cup successes, Mbeumo was limited to just three Carabao Cup outings and one FA Cup appearance. The Cameroon international was phenomenal in the Premier League all season long. Depending what Palmer does in the Conference League final, Mbeumo will either finish second or third among Dream Team midfielders - an outstanding effort. 9 BIGGEST FLOP Generally, we prefer to celebrate the most successful players but it would be remiss to ignore the darker side of Dream Team altogether. Emile Smith Rowe was initially among the most popular midfielders in the game following his transfer from Arsenal to Fulham but the 24-year-old delivered just 135 points overall, fewer than Bilal El Khannouss, Lewis Cook and Adama Traore. During his heyday, Raheem Sterling once finished as Dream Team's top performer for the season but he scored just one goal for Arsenal in 2024/25 and has become a punchline among the Emirates faithful. Elsewhere, Darwin Nunez conspired to average just 3.6 points-per-game while representing the best team in the country. However, the most disappointing element in Dream Team this season was the severe drop-off of Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's side recovered to finish third in the league but as a collective they provided far fewer points than gaffers have come to expect. Erling Haaland and Josko Gvardiol were worthy of their popularity but it says a lot that Phil Foden was City's third-highest points scorer as most would agree the England international was under par this season. The FA Cup finalists conceded 71 goals in all competitions, severely damaging the viability of their defensive assets. In fact, Gvardiol was the only City defender in the top 30, a far cry from previous seasons. WINNER: MAN CITY'S DEFENCE (EXCLUDING GVARDIOL) 9 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER (MVP) We finish with the most prestigious award and the most clearcut winner. Mohamed Salah was already a Dream Team legend but this season he reached an otherworldly level. When Liverpool's hero equalised against Brighton in Gameweek 37, he made it 57 goal involvements for the campaign in all competitions! This obscene tally was the primary reason he ended as a quintuple centurion, with 503 points to his name to be exact - Bruno Fernandes was the only other player to achieve 400+ points. Simply put, Salah was in a league of his own. 9 Who knows what starting price the Egyptian superstar deserves in 2025/26...
Barnama
2 days ago
- Sport
- Barnama
Amorim Sees ASEAN All-Stars Clash As More Than Just A Friendly For Red Devils
KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 (Bernama) -- Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim insists the Red Devils are treating their post-season match against the ASEAN All-Stars with full seriousness, as both teams gear up for the clash in the Maybank Challenge Cup at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here tomorrow night. The 40-year-old Portuguese tactician, who took over the reins at Old Trafford earlier this season, stressed that every match involving United carried weight, regardless of the setting or opposition. 'We have a lot to do, we have to improve the team. If there's any game to be played, we're going to use it to improve the team. We have almost all of the squad here; some of the players, for example Noussair Mazraoui, had an injury last Sunday, but the rest are here. bootstrap slideshow 'We also have young kids here to understand what it means to play for Man United, so it's an important moment for us to play this game,' he told a press conference ahead of tomorrow's clash at the team's hotel here today. Amorim also expressed appreciation for the warm reception the team received in Malaysia, noting the unwavering support of United fans despite a difficult season. He added that the global reach of United's supporters was a key element of what made the club special. 'It's really important to have that connection (with fans) because, in the end, that's the real thing that makes this club one of the best in the world, so we are very pleased to be here,' he said. Meanwhile, United midfielder Mason Mount said the squad was energised by the warm welcome upon arrival here yesterday. 'It was a quick turnaround, obviously straight after the game (Aston Villa match); we are all very excited to be over here. We don't get the opportunity to be over this side of the world and see our fans very often. We obviously want to make the most of it.
Morocco World
3 days ago
- Sport
- Morocco World
Mazraoui Injury Raises Doubts Over Morocco Call-up
Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui is facing a race against time to be fit for Morocco's upcoming international friendlies against Tunisia and Benin after suffering a muscle injury. The 27-year-old was forced off after just 20 minutes during United's 2-0 win over Aston Villa on the final day of the Premier League season. He appeared to be in discomfort before signalling to the bench and was immediately replaced. Manchester United confirmed on their official website that Mazraoui is undergoing medical tests to assess the extent of the injury. Omitted from the post-season tour Mazraoui was not included in the 32-man squad named by United manager Ruben Amorim for the club's post-season tour of Asia. The team will face the ASEAN All-Stars and a Hong Kong XI on May 28 and 30. His absence suggests the injury may be more than a minor issue, which could impact his availability for Morocco's June friendlies. Morocco boss awaiting medical reports National team coach Walid Regragui is preparing to announce his squad for the matches in Fez, scheduled for June 7 and 10. Regragui stands to closely review Mazraoui's condition, along with that of Brahim Díaz and Nayef Aguerd, before making any final decisions. The national coach is expected to receive full medical reports in the coming days before confirming whether the trio will be available. Tags: Manchester UnitedMoroccoNoussair MazraouiWalid Regragui
The National
21-05-2025
- Sport
- The National
Europa League final: Man United reap rewards of Noussair Mazraoui's cool consistency
This has been Manchester United's worst season in England's top division since relegation in 1974, but joy and drama have prevailed in an exciting Uefa Europa League run as United face Tottenham Hotspur in Wednesday's final in Bilbao. It's a huge game for both clubs, a chance of a trophy and qualification for next season's Champions League. There have been individuals who deserve credit from this otherwise misfiring team. Bruno Fernandes has again been by far the best player, but of the signings made in time for this season, Noussair Mazraoui, 27, is the one who has most impressed. The Netherlands-born Moroccan came from Bayern Munich – and has been the most consistent defender this season too. If Mazraoui starts as expected, it will be his 56th club game of the season a big step up given he averaged 27 at Bayern and 32 per campaign once he had established himself at Ajax before that. He's only been booked three times in all those games this term and played all 120 minutes in the FA Cup matches against Arsenal and Fulham. Multiple insiders on the football side at United say Mazraoui is the best signing United have made for years. There are several reasons for this. Mazraoui is technically secure on the ball with both feet, he dribbles well out of pressure, and his game understanding has impressed teammates and coaches. United knew they were getting a good player, but have been surprised at how agile and aggressive Mazraoui has been, how strong he is. He is also versatile and can play right-back, full-back and central-defender. He's a full-back that both cuts inside and plays midfield – both high and low. Like a modern-day Denis Irwin, United's legendary full-back, Mazraoui is consistent week after week, with 7 and 8/10 performances. He is quiet, popular among his teammates, respectful and unassuming. His teammates trust him with the ball and know that he'll be calm when they pass to him under pressure. 'When you consider that he's played for Ajax and Bayern Munich, there's no ego at all with him,' one source told The National. 'We've been crying out for players like that. 'As a player he's extremely technical and that's one reason why he's been used as a forward by Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. 'He's top under pressure which is a big attribute to have when you consider the number of teams that both press aggressively and man to man. 'When you press man to man, you're only as good as your weakest presser but it's never Nous. He's conscientious, he's a good athlete.' A devout Muslim, Mazraoui played games every three days and trained every day while fasting during Ramadan. He never complained, he never does. He simply does what is asked of him at a club where he's desperate to do well and add to the four domestic titles he won in the Netherlands (three) and Germany. Mazraoui has played most of his games as a right-back, with Diogo Dalot on the opposite side, though he's been as adept playing there or in the right central defensive role in coach Amorim's favoured 3-5-2 formation. Considering how many games he's played, Mazraoui has not made many mistakes and continues to be steady, a link player who pops up with the odd attacking moment – like when he hit the crossbar with a beautiful strike from distance the last time United played in Bilbao. It was hardly likely to go in: he hasn't scored for two years. Earlier in the game, he played a wonderful ball which led to a United penalty and towards the Europa League final in the same city. Mazraoui has played 90 minutes in 10 of the club's 14 unbeaten Europa League games on the way to Bilbao. He had to leave Old Trafford at half-time during the Lyon quarter-final second leg to attend to a personal issue when United were leading 2-0: Lyon then scored four goals before United's most dramatic comeback in years and a 5-4 win after extra time. This has been a problem season for United, but Mazraoui hasn't been one of them – an example of positive recruitment at a club which has signed too many players who haven't worked out in the last decade. United have been burnt buying talents from big clubs including Bayern Munich but Mazraoui has bucked the trend. Ten Hag was the man who pushed hardest to sign him and while some of the other signings on the Dutchman's watch failed, Mazraoui has justified the confidence shown in him.
The National
20-05-2025
- Sport
- The National
Hakimi, Mazraoui and Abde look to lead Moroccan clean sweep of Uefa titles
Where, the manager and players of Tottenham Hotspur may wonder, will they find Manchester United's Noussair Mazraoui at kick off of the Europa League final in Bilbao? He might be at wing-back. On either side of midfield. He may be part of United's back three. There's always the long-shot possibility of a more radical deployment, too, perhaps as a central midfielder, even a number 10. If trophies were awarded for versatility, the multi-skilled Moroccan would have a warehouse full of them. As it is, Mazraoui finds himself 90, or 120-odd minutes from capping a rollercoaster first season at Manchester United with a first continental title to add to his handsome set of domestic prizes from his time at Ajax and Bayern Munich, and poised to set in motion a very special treble for his country. By the end of next week, Morocco could have seen three of the stars from its golden generation of players lift, in quick succession, the full trio of Uefa club trophies - Mazraoui the Europa League with United, Abde Ezzalzouli the Conference League with Real Betis, who meet Chelsea in Wroclaw next Wednesday, and Achraf Hakimi the Champions League if Paris Saint-Germain can overcome his former club Inter Milan in Munich on May 31. All three were vital contributors to guiding Morocco's Atlas Lions to a historic place in the semi-finals of the last World Cup, a landmark for Arab and African football and a launchpad for a sequence of individual Moroccan successes. At the weekend, RS Berkane, the newly crowned Moroccan league champions, put themselves in pole position to win the CAF Confederation Cup, Africa's secondary continental prize, with a 2-0 victory over Simba of Tanzania in the first leg of the final. That leaves Berkane's smattering of Morocco internationals hopeful of adding their names to a growing roll of honour of continental prizes. Last season's included an Asian Champions League for Al Ain's Soufiane Rahimi, a Concacaf Champions League for Oussama Idrissi with Pachuca of Mexico, an African Champions League for Reda Slim of Al Ahly, a Uefa Conference League title for Ayoub Al Kaabi of Olympiakos and a European Cup for Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz. Curiously, none of those five were at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco, for varying reasons, but are all senior internationals whose achievements vouch for the country's strength in depth and, according to national head coach Walid Regragui, for a self-confidence generated since the Qatar 2022 adventure. 'The World Cup was a turning point,' Regragui told the newspaper AS. 'We have always had talent and had players representing major clubs, but it was time for us to face up to the big football powers and look them in the eye without fear. That's the edge we have developed.' The players Regragui will watch competing in the trio of Uefa finals boast a catalogue of major clubs on their resumes. Abde, 23, was at Barcelona before taking his nimble wing play on to Osasuna and, for the past two seasons, to Betis. Hakimi came through the academy at Real Madrid and was a teenaged member of the squad who won the European Cup in 2017/18, before going on to win domestic trophies in Germany, with Borussia Dortmund, in Italy with Inter, and a series of Ligue 1 titles in his four seasons so far with PSG. Mazraoui was a Dutch champion with Ajax and Bundesliga winner with Bayern before accepting the huge challenge of trying to restore United's past status as a superpower of the English Premier League. That is still a work in progress. Mazraoui joined from Bayern last summer, reuniting with Erik ten Hag, his former head coach at Ajax. In late October, Ten Hag was gone, but amid the turmoil of a wretched domestic season, Mazraoui has emerged as the most admired of the 2024/25 new signings - for his endeavour, his stamina, his mix of defensive authority and creativity and a versatility appreciated equally by Ten Hag and his successor as manager, Ruben Amorim. In all, he has operated in six different starting positions for United: right-back, left back, centre-back, and, once Amorim had installed his preferred wing-back system, on both the right and left extremes of midfield. Ten Hag's penultimate match in charge, at Fenerbahce in the Europa League, featured Mazraoui as an attacking central midfielder. 'A surprise,' he admitted to reporters, but a task he fulfilled with his customary accomplishment. He knew the role, he added because 'I played in it a long time ago.' Added to all these positional switches was another challenge: a health scare, a heart issue that caused Mazraoui to leave the field in a league game against Aston Villa in October. He was back in action within a fortnight, endorsing his warrior reputation. That strength of character has been most pronounced in United's European campaign, where they are unbeaten in 14 matches, a record in sharp contrast to their limp Premier League showings. The route to Bilbao has been punctuated by stirring comebacks, from a see-saw 3-3 in Porto, with its stoppage time equaliser, to the astonishing recovery in the quarter-final against Lyon, against whom United had trailed 6-4 on aggregate with 11 minutes of extra-time remaining. They still clawed their way through. In the Europa League, only Bruno Fernandes, of United's outfield players, has been on the pitch for more minutes than Mazraoui. 'A lot of minutes, playing in different positions,' he reflects, ahead of what will be his 59th game of the season, club and country combined - and his third confrontation with Spurs, one at right full-back, one as a centre-back, and one on the right of midfield. Regragui has long valued Mazraoui's flexibility, and if the player would naturally regard the right side of defence as his most expert position, his mastery of the left-back role has been a blessing for the Atlas Lions. It meant Hakimi, among the finest attacking right-backs in the sport, could make the right flank his domain, with Mazraoui providing high-class balance on the other side of the pitch. Two finer examples of stamina could scarcely be found. Hakimi, who captained Morocco to a bronze medal at the Paris Olympic Games, will be lining up in Munich for his 60th match for club or country since last June. His imprint on PSG's path to what they hope will be the club's maiden Champions League triumph is heavy. Hakimi's marauding runs brought him goals in both the quarter-final against Aston Villa and the semi against Arsenal. 'He's a reference point for us on and off the field,' says PSG head coach Luis Enrique. For Betis, Abde's goals are, pure and simple, the reason why Betis have reached a first Uefa final. He struck the opener in the 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in the first leg of their Conference League semi and the extra-time equaliser in the second leg in Italy to seal a 3-2 aggregate win. Abde's year has been long and tiring too, because, like Hakimi, he was a key man in Morocco's Olympic summer. In the months that followed the winger sometimes struggled for consistency with Betis. But his head coach Manuel Pellegrini, grateful that Abde's return to peak effectiveness has been so well timed, sees him as a major weapon against Chelsea: 'Abde is back to being the player we all hope he can be.'
