Rabat – Noussair Mazraoui, Manchester United’s Moroccan defender, reflected earlier this week on the players who shaped his career and the lessons he carries today.
Speaking to United’s official website, he credited Hakim Ziyech and Zakaria Labyad with guiding him when he first broke into Ajax’s senior squad. Both being Moroccan gave him support and confidence at a crucial stage, he explained.
Mazraoui said that Ziyech had the biggest influence, as they shared three to four years in Amsterdam.
Of his much shorter time in Germany with Bayern, the Moroccan defender added that Thomas Muller, whom he described as “a legendary figure,” left a mark. The right-back also opened up about fasting during Ramadan while competing at the highest level.
He explained that this year’s schedule will be easier since sunset comes earlier, making the fast less demanding. Still, he described the month as a special time he looks forward to.
Balancing fasting with training and matches, Mazraoui said, comes down to experience. He has done it since his youth, learning how to eat properly during permitted hours to maintain peak performance. Nutrition and timing, he stressed, are key to staying sharp on the pitch.
He recalled last year’s unique experience of breaking his fast during a match. Normally, players eat and hydrate before kick-off, but fasting changes that routine. While it presents challenges, Mazraoui believes it also brings focus.
Without thinking about food, he can concentrate more deeply on the game and on his spiritual mindset.
Mazraoui’s words show both the human side of football and the discipline required to balance faith with professional demands.
