Jose Mourinho reveals he was tipped off by former Man Utd player over Erik ten Hag’s surprise lineup for draw in Europa League

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag shocked fans and pundits when he gave Mazraoui a start as the No. 10 during their 1-1 draw in the Europa League against Mourinho’s Fenerbahce. Bruno Fernandes was unavailable for selection for the Red Devils after his red card against Porto in the previous round of fixtures, and there was debate over who would fill that void.

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Ten Hag decided to use Mazraoui in Fernandes’ position. While the move was a surprise to most, Mourinho revealed he knew there was a chance that the Moroccan could start in that area as former United midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, who is now at the Turkish club and is a team-mate of Mazraoui at international level, told him prior to the game about this possibility.

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  WHAT MOURINHO SAID

  Speaking to the media post-match, Mourinho said: “The situation with Mazraoui, maybe for you it was a big surprise. For us, it was not because Amrabat told me Mazraoui can play in this position. He did a lot with Ten Hag in Ajax. He has the qualities – he is not Bruno – but in terms of the legs to press with a striker, the two centre-backs, he has the legs to do it.”

• WHAT NEXT FOR MAZRAOUI & MAN UTD?

  The Moroccan will likely return to his original position in defence when United travel to West Ham on Sunday, October 27. Fernandes will be eligible to play again back in Premier League action.