Mazraoui: Ziyech and Thomas Müller Left Their Mark on My Career

Moroccan international Noussair Mazraoui, a Manchester United player, affirmed that Hakim Ziyech and Zakaria Labyad played a significant role in supporting him during his early days at Ajax.

When asked about the players who influenced his career from the beginning, Mazraoui stated in an interview with Manchester United's official website: "Hakim Ziyech, when I joined the first team at Ajax, and Zakaria Labyad. These two, of course, are from Morocco. So they helped me a lot when I was younger and joined the first team."

Regarding teammates he played with who had the biggest impact, he clarified: "I also think Hakim Ziyech, because I played with him for three or four years, and that's a very long time. I think my time in Germany was perhaps too short, but if I had to mention someone there, I think it's Thomas Müller. He's a legendary person."

Mazraoui also spoke about fasting during Ramadan: "This year, the sun will set very early, so I don't expect it to be difficult. But I will enjoy this month a lot."

On how he balances fasting with intense training and matches, he explained: "I think it's a matter of experience. I've been doing it for a long time, throughout my career since I was young. So yes, you know how to eat to get maximum performance during the day. It's very important to eat at the times you can eat so you can perform at the times you are fasting."

Reflecting on his experience of breaking his fast during a match last year, he said: "Normally you have a meal before the game and make sure you drink enough water, and that's something you can't do now. So naturally, that aspect is very different. But on the other hand, I think you have more time to focus. Instead of focusing on food, you can now really focus on the game and on your spiritual thoughts as well."