Noussair Mazraoui reveals why he left Bayern Munich for 'bigger club' Man Utd and opens up on close relationship with Matthijs de Ligt

Manchester United signed both Mazraoui and De Ligt in the summer from Bayern as part of a summer spending spree that also saw Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte and Joshua Zirkzee arrive at Old Trafford. Mazraoui has gone on to start all five Premier League games under Erik ten Hag, while De Ligt has also established himself as a starter in recent weeks.

United will be hoping the arrival of the new defenders will strengthen a backline that conceded 58 times in 38 Premier League games last season. Both Mazraoui and De Ligt know Ten Hag well having played under the Dutchman previously at Ajax before moving on to Bayern. Mazraoui has spoken about his decision to head to Old Trafford and says he felt it was the right time for a new challenge.

He told reporters: "If you compare both of them, you cannot say one is bigger than the other. Maybe internationally speaking, Manchester United is probably bigger than Bayern so that’s for sure one of the reasons. The other reason is that I felt at that time, last summer, after two seasons at Bayern, I needed and wanted another step based on a lot of reasons. I felt OK there but I had a feeling that I can feel better and more comfortable somewhere else. That’s why I eventually chose to change clubs and that’s where Manchester United came in. I don’t really think I have to explain why I chose such a decision."

Mazrouai also spoke about his relationship with De Ligt: “Of course, I think that’s also one of the big things, not just him but already I knew others here to settle down easier. It’s tough to come to a new club with new players and new people but the moment you feel comfortable is the moment you play better. Because I knew some players here and I came together with Matthijs, which makes life easier.”

Manchester United are currently preparing for their first Europa League fixture of the season. The Red Devils play FC Twente on Wednesday at Old Trafford and then host Tottenham in the Premier League on Sunday.