Rabat – Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has thrown his support behind Noussair Mazraoui, saying the Moroccan international deserves to start at right-back ahead of Diogo Dalot when the 2026-27 Premier League season begins.
Speaking on his Rio Presents podcast, Ferdinand said that if he were United head coach Michael Carrick, Mazraoui would be his first-choice right-back.
“If I were Michael Carrick, I would start Noussair Mazraoui ahead of Diogo Dalot. It’s as simple as that,” Ferdinand said.
The former England defender pointed to Mazraoui’s impressive performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguing that the defender has returned to club football in peak condition.
“Mazraoui came back from the World Cup in the best form of his career. He’s full of confidence and playing with great rhythm. Major tournaments often give players a huge boost, and smart coaches know how to take advantage of that,” he explained.
Ferdinand also praised the Moroccan’s composure and tactical intelligence, highlighting qualities he believes could help Manchester United control games more effectively.
“What I like about Mazraoui is how calm he is on the ball. He’s comfortable under pressure, plays well in tight spaces, and knows when to move inside and when to stay wide. If Carrick wants Manchester United to dominate possession, those qualities are extremely important,” he said.
While acknowledging Dalot’s consistency over recent seasons, Ferdinand insisted that no player should have a guaranteed place in the starting XI.
“Dalot is a very good player and has been reliable for Manchester United, but football is about form and competition. No one’s place should be guaranteed,” he added.
Ferdinand concluded by saying Mazraoui has earned the opportunity to begin the campaign as a starter and believes that, if he maintains the level he displayed during the World Cup, he could become one of Manchester United’s most influential players this season.
Mazraoui heads into the new campaign with growing momentum after impressing for both club and country. His performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup further enhanced his reputation as one of Morocco’s most dependable defenders, and strong backing from a Manchester United icon like Ferdinand is likely to intensify the competition for the right-back position at Old Trafford.
