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Michael Owen suggested that Noussair Mazraoui should have made a better decision during the high-pressure moment.
Michael Owen called Noussair Mazraoui’s mistake ‘stupid’ (X)
England legend Michael Owen has slammed Manchester United star Noussair Mazraoui after the team’s crushing loss to Bournemouth on Sunday. Ruben Amorim’s men hosted The Cherries at Old Trafford on December 22. The fixture, however, didn’t play out in the Red Devils’ favour as they lost 0-3 on home turf. Following the match Owen lashed out at the team’s poor display while speaking to Premier League Productions. He specifically pointed fingers at Mazraoui’s performance on the night, describing his mistake as ‘stupid’. As per multiple outlets, he said, “You’re being kind. A little rash? A little stupid more like.”
The Manchester United versus Bournemouth clash began with Dean Huijsen scoring the opening goal for the visitors. Having conceded a single goal in the opening half of the match, there were still hopes of a late comeback from Ruben Amorim’s men. However, those hopes were soon put to rest after Noussair Mazraoui gave away a crucial penalty in the 61st minute of the game. Justin Kluivert didn’t let the opportunity get away as he converted from the spot to double Bournemouth’s lead. A couple of minutes later, Antoine Semenyo added a third goal to pick up a statement victory.
Speaking about Noussair Mazraoui’s costly blunder, Michael Owen suggested that the Moroccan defender should have made a better decision during the high-pressure moment. “What on earth are you doing? Two players are waiting for him, he’s not going to score from there and he dives in. Just stay on your feet and usher him away. It’s just a poor, poor decision,” he said.
Michael Owen also blamed the whole of the Manchester United squad, claiming that their chances of making a late comeback were always up for doubt. “The sad thing from Manchester United these days is they go 1-0 down and you never really think they’re going to come back. They’re not a good team. Ruben Amorim needs to be watching that game and ensure these players that are not performing do not put on the shirt again. He needs to be that brutal and that ruthless,” he said.
Noussair Mazraoui was signed by Manchester United in the summer transfer window this year. The 27-year-old had penned down a four-year deal with the club that binds him to Old Trafford until 2028. Given his recent performance, the youngster could find himself on the bench for Manchester United’s upcoming fixture against Wolverhampton.