Ten Hag Explains Decision to Start Defender Mazraoui in No. 10 Role

Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has provided insight into his choice to deploy defender Noussair Mazraoui in the number 10 role during their Europa League away match against Fenerbahçe.

The Dutch tactician surprised fans and analysts alike by positioning the 26-year-old Moroccan international as an attacking playmaker.

Ten Hag, who previously coached Mazraoui at Ajax, explained to TNT Sports, “Mazraoui will play in the 10 position tonight. I know him from Ajax, where I played him in similar roles. Even as a full-back, he operates effectively in the half-spaces, so he’s capable of handling this position.”

After the match ended in a 1-1 draw, Ten Hag further justified his choice, stating, “In an intense European away game with a hectic atmosphere, starting with four attackers would have been excessive.”

Following three Europa League games, Manchester United currently sit 21st on the standings, outside the automatic qualification spots for the round of 16.