**Ten Hag Confirms Starting Spot for £60 Million Signing**
Erik ten Hag has announced that Manchester United’s £60 million signing will start in the upcoming match against Twente on Wednesday, rewarding him for an impressive performance last week. Ten Hag stated that he is being recognized for his brilliant showing.
Recently, United faced Crystal Palace in a Premier League match that ended in a 0-0 stalemate. Despite dominating possession, the team struggled to penetrate Palace’s defense and score. They had several near misses, with Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes both hitting the woodwork. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson was instrumental, making key saves to keep the score level.
Although the result was disappointing, some standout performances offered hope for future matches. Goalkeeper Andre Onana excelled, making a vital double save, while Matthijs de Ligt displayed strong aerial skills in a commanding performance. Noussair Mazraoui, playing at right-back, also stood out with 100 touches and 54 completed passes. The 26-year-old excelled defensively, winning 10 duels and making five clearances and seven recoveries, establishing himself as a key player at Selhurst Park.
Since the season began, Mazraoui has been a reliable presence in the lineup, starting from the opening match against Fulham. His consistent form has made him almost irreplaceable, especially with Diogo Dalot typically serving as the regular right-back when Luke Shaw is available. With Shaw expected to return soon, Dalot, who has been filling in at left-back, may find himself on the bench.
Having previously played under Ten Hag at Ajax, Mazraoui has adapted well to the inverted right-back role, fitting seamlessly into the team’s style. His contributions outshine Dalot’s, suggesting that Mazraoui is likely to retain his starting position even when Shaw is fit. His strong performances could secure his place in the lineup for the foreseeable future.
As United gears up for the match against Twente, attention will be on Mazraoui to see if he can maintain his high level of play and solidify his position in the squad. Despite the frustrating draw against Crystal Palace, Onana’s crucial saves and de Ligt’s aerial strength provide reasons for optimism. United will aim to enhance their attacking play in upcoming matches, with Mazraoui’s emergence potentially being a defining factor for the season as he continues to integrate under his former Ajax coach.
It will be intriguing to see if Mazraoui can sustain his form and further entrench himself in United’s starting XI, particularly with more competition once Shaw returns to full fitness.
