“I’ve never seen anything like this! A full-back playing as a playmaker? This is a joke!” – Jay Bothroyd reacts as Noussair Mazraoui starts in the No.10 role for Manchester United against Fenerbahce.
Football fans around the world were left stunned as Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag made an unprecedented tactical move by deploying Noussair Mazraoui, a natural full-back, in the No.10 role for United’s Europa League clash against Fenerbahce. This bold decision sent shockwaves across social media, and it didn’t take long for football pundits to weigh in. Among the loudest voices was former England international Jay Bothroyd, who didn’t hold back in his criticism.
“I’ve never seen anything like this! A full-back playing as a playmaker? This is a joke!” Bothroyd exclaimed during a live broadcast, as the football community reeled in disbelief. Known for his outspoken views, Bothroyd’s comments were echoed by many fans who questioned whether Ten Hag had finally lost his tactical edge. Mazraoui, who’s typically known for his defensive contributions at right-back, looked like an odd choice to lead United’s attack from the No.10 position.
Fans are now fiercely divided. Some are praising Ten Hag for his creativity, calling the decision a masterstroke that could unlock new tactical possibilities. “It’s genius! Mazraoui’s vision and work rate might be exactly what we need in the center!” one fan wrote on Twitter. Others, however, were far less optimistic, fearing this could derail United’s hopes in the competition. “This is insanity! How can you expect a full-back to create chances like Bruno Fernandes?” another fan complained.
As the match unfolded, all eyes were on Mazraoui’s every touch, with pundits and fans alike holding their breath to see if this gamble would pay off. Could this risky tactical switch go down in history as a stroke of genius, or will it be remembered as one of Ten Hag’s biggest mistakes at Manchester United? Only time will tell.