Mazraoui returns from World Cup break ready to start new Manchester United season

Morocco international Noussair Mazraoui says he is physically ready for the new Manchester United season despite only recently returning from his post-World Cup break.

The 28-year-old was among United players given additional time off after representing Morocco at the 2026 World Cup in North America, where the Atlas Lions reached the quarter-finals before losing 2-0 to France.

Mazraoui believes his heavy workload at the tournament has helped him maintain his fitness despite the relatively short break.

“I don’t think you lose that much in three weeks,” Mazraoui told Manchester United’s official media. “I played a lot of games at the World Cup, so physically I’m not that far away from my best.”

“I feel fresh and I’m ready to begin the new season.”

Mazraoui returns to pre-season action

The defender made his first Manchester United pre-season appearance since the World Cup in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with European champions Paris Saint-Germain in Gothenburg.

United confirmed the fixture marked his return to action following his international commitments.

He then featured again against Leeds United at Croke Park on Wednesday, playing a part in another 1-1 draw before making the difference in the resulting penalty shootout.

Joshua Zirkzee put United ahead before Brenden Aaronson equalised for Leeds.

United eventually won 5-4 on penalties, with Mazraoui converting the decisive spot-kick after James Justin hit the crossbar for Leeds.

Moroccan defender welcomes new signings

Mazraoui has also been impressed by the atmosphere within Michael Carrick’s squad and believes Manchester United’s new arrivals have settled quickly.

“They’ve settled in really well,” he said. “We have a good group of guys, very easy going, and I think we have players who give this feeling to the new signings.”

United signed Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea in July, while Belgium international Youri Tielemans joined from Aston Villa during the same month.

Mazraoui’s return provides Carrick with another experienced defensive option as United enter the final stage of their pre-season preparations.

United prepare for Premier League opener

Manchester United will conclude their warm-up schedule against AC Milan in Poland on Saturday before turning their attention to competitive football.

The Red Devils begin their Premier League campaign away to newly promoted Hull City on 22 August.

For Mazraoui, the combination of his World Cup experience and recent pre-season minutes means he believes he can be ready to contribute from the opening weekend.

After Morocco’s deep run at the World Cup, the defender now has his attention firmly on Manchester United and the challenge of the new Premier League season.