Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui opens up on Hakim Ziyech and Zakaria Labyad’s influence on his career

Moroccan international Noussair Mazraoui has opened up about the crucial influence of his compatriot Hakim Ziyech and Dutch-Moroccan midfielder Zakaria Labyad during his early days with Ajax Amsterdam.

Mazraoui, who now plies his trade for Manchester United reflected on the importance of having experienced teammates during the formative years of his professional career.

“Yes, Ziyech is one of the players who influenced my career, because I played with him for three or four years, which is a long time indeed,” he said. “Alongside Zakaria Labyad, they helped me adapt to the first-team environment at Ajax, guiding me both on and off the pitch.”

Mazraoui emphasized that the support he received from Ziyech and Labyad was invaluable in developing his confidence, technical skills, and understanding of high-level football. He described how their mentorship allowed him to navigate the pressures of professional football while finding his own identity as a midfielder.

Reflecting on his brief experience in Germany, Mazraoui also singled out Thomas Müller as a player who left a lasting impression. “My experience in Germany was relatively short, but if I had to name a player there, I would choose Thomas Müller. He is a legendary player and a big name in football,” Mazraoui noted, underscoring the admiration he holds for the German international’s intelligence, versatility, and impact on the game.

Mazraoui’s comments reveal how formative relationships with established stars can shape the careers of young players, providing guidance, inspiration, and a model of professionalism to aspire to. From his early development at Ajax to his time in Germany and now competing at the highest level in England, the Moroccan defender credits these experiences and mentors with helping him build the foundation for his growing reputation on the international stage.

As Mazraoui continues to develop at Manchester United FC, the lessons learned from Ziyech, Labyad, and Müller remain central to his approach—balancing skill, intelligence, and dedication to become a leader in his own right for both club and country.