Manchester United are gearing up for the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21. As part of the media day before the showpiece occasion, Noussair Mazraoui faced members of the media on Wednesday.
Just like Ruben Amorim said during the press conference, the Moroccan, who has been an ever-present member of the first team, mentioned clearly that despite what has transpired before in the season, it will have no bearing on the final.
The Red Devils have lost thrice to Spurs, twice in the Premier League and once in the Carabao Cup, but the versatile defender made it clear this is a different game and that his teammates were ready for it.
“It’s different, the Europa League and the Premier League. So, I don’t think you can compare those because it’s just a different game. It’s Europa League and it’s a final. It’s it has nothing to do with the Premier League. Every final is a huge one, especially in Europe. It’s my first one here. So really looking forward to it.”
On the final
Not only the trophy but Champions League qualification rests on that game while the club’s immediate future with regards to building a solid squad for next season is also dependent on this one game.
Which effectively means a lot of pressure on the players to perform when it matters given their horrible displays throughout the domestic season. And the former Bayern Munich star admitted that there is a lot of pressure but he excels in such environments, which is why he is looking forward to the Bilbao showpiece occasion.
“It’s a lot of pressure. It’s not my first game where there’s a lot of pressure. I’ve experienced quite a few games, like the semi-final of the World Cup. So this is a little bit similar. Of course, it’s a slightly different context. There’s a lot at stake but I love the pressure and I’m looking forward to it.”
The 27-year-old was asked how it felt this season to lose so many games and he made it clear that he is not used to losing and something he is eager to change.
Hurting to lose so many games
“Am I hurting? Of course, I am. I come from clubs where I’m not used to losing, I will never get used to losing whereever I am as well as here. It’s a painful moment but life is sometimes painful and you just have to go through it.”
And as many have asked the head coach, Mazraoui also faced the question as to whether success in the final would signify a successful season for the club.
He was clear in his answer that while the European journey this season would be a resounding success, it would not change the fact that the 20-time English league champions massively unperformed in the Premier League.
“The Europa League season will be a success, the league season will still not be a success. Those are the facts. At the end you pay a price. There are both sides. There are a lot of competition you play in, in PL you play week in, week out so eventually people will set their opinion more according to the Premier League.
Personal form
“It would be less painful, your pain will be less, you get a hug, when you’re sad. That’s basically it.”
On a personal level, Mazraoui has played in multiple positions — full-back, wingback, centre-back and even attacking midfield. And he also has more minutes than in previous seasons with the Bavarian giants, which gives him a little bit of satisfaction.
“It’s a hard season, this is my first in the Premier League without a winter break, playing almost every single minute I’ve played more than in any season, physically it’s very demanding, but mentally as well.”
And finally, he was asked about the support of the fans and how they have backed the team even at its lowest ebb. Mazraoui made it clear that he has never felt such support at his previous clubs and he is determined to win the trophy for the United faithful.
On the fans
“I have huge respect for the fans of Manchester United for this season. The way they still support us through all the difficulties. I’ve never experienced this. I’m more used criticism.
“We have to give them something back for how have behaved this season, how they cope with all the other disappointments. This is our chance to give them a little bit back.”
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
