Why an Ajax reunification is the solution to Ten Hag's problems

Robin Bairner
Robin Bairner
  • 22 Apr 2023 12:00 BST
  • 10 min read
Erik ten Hag, Ajax, 2022/23
© ProShots

Manchester United are said to be one of many clubs working on the transfer of Noussair Mazraoui.

The right-back is dissatisfied with his situation at Bayern Munich and seems to be open to a transfer. This has been been noticed by English, Italian, Spanish and German clubs. Data from SciSports shows that Mazraoui would be a good match for Erik ten Hag's club.

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In conversation with Abendzeitung, Mazraoui recently made it clear that he is not happy with the situation at Bayern: "I was a starting player for the World Cup. Now I am in top shape and I don't even get playing time anymore."

The arrival of Thomas Tuchel as a replacement for Julian Nagelsmann has so far turned out badly for him.

"I am not even second or third choice. It is still early to talk about my perspective at the club. Only I can say that it is right now just isn't right," he said.

The comments have not gone unnoticed by other clubs. In addition to Manchester United, Arsenal, Newcastle United, Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid among others would like to stay informed about how the situation is developing.

Mazraoui left Ajax on a free transfer last summer and is stuck in Munich until mid-2026. At United he could be reunited with Ten Hag, who already worked with the defender in Amsterdam.

Noussair Mazraoui with Erik ten Hag at Ajax
© ProShots - Noussair Mazraoui with Erik ten Hag at Ajax

Looking at the data from SciSports, it appears that Mazraoui would be a good match for the former Ajax manager. The 25-year-old fits well into the formation of the Red Devils and also has the same kind of style as Diogo Dalot, who is first choice this season and is doing well under Ten Hag. They are both attacking full-backs who make runs for their winger both inside and outside. The only difference in playing style is that Mazraoui makes more often internal actions than the 24-year-old Portuguese.

Mazraoui also has many qualities that are important for a defender at the highest level. Despite the fact that he has played little, partly due to injuries, he is still one of the better full-backs in the Bundesliga.

Mazraoui excels especially in passing and chooses position very well in attacking situations. In addition, the 20-time international (two goals) is a very competent dribbler. Defensively, he puts good pressure on the opponents and prevents attackers from dribbling, shooting or passing past him. Compared to Dalot, Mazraoui scores better in terms of passing, dribbling and offensive positioning. The current United starter is better defensively, though.

-+ Noussair Mazraoui Noussair Mazraoui delivers the third best passing of all backs in the Bundesliga.

This makes Mazraoui a good option for United, as he is better offensively than the current first choice at Old Trafford. Moreover, he is unlikely to be too expensive.

Partly due to his lack of playing time, Mazraoui's Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has fallen considerably. In August, the right footer’s ETV was estimated at no less than €28 million. The FootballTransfers algorithm now estimates Mazraoui's transfer value at €20.3 million.

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