"In part, it is do with the scheduling of the respective AFCON games, as hosts Morocco play on Sunday 21 November, and the other two nations not playing until Wednesday 24 December. Morocco refused United's request to release Mazraoui later than 15 December, and after the club escalated the matter to FIFA, the governing body sided with the AFCON hosts."
"Club officials are said to be disappointed, the feeling being that they have been penalised by the game being moved to Monday night, while other Premier League sides were able to play their African players in the same gameweek without issue. United are said to be happy with Mazraoui himself, who they feel trained professionally and respected both his club and country before flying to link up with Morocco on Sunday evening."
Manchester United missed defender Noussair Mazraoui for the Bournemouth game because Morocco required his presence ahead of hosting the Africa Cup of Nations. Ivory Coast's Amad and Cameroon's Bryan Mbeumo were allowed to play after the club held talks with their federations. Morocco refused United's request to delay Mazraoui's AFCON release beyond 15 December. FIFA sided with Morocco after United escalated the matter. Club officials expressed disappointment at being disadvantaged by a match being moved to Monday night. United reported that Mazraoui trained professionally and respected both club and country before departing. Injuries to Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt left Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven starting in defence with Luke Shaw.
Read at www.fourfourtwo.com
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