Noussair Mazraoui has warned his Manchester United team-mates about the threat of Hamza Igamane – and tipped the Gers striker for a Morocco call-up.
The Old Trafford full-back is an admirer of the 22-year-old who has lit up Ibrox this season with his goals. Igamane has been a revelation for Philippe Clement’s side after being plucked from Moroccan outfit AS FAR in the summer. Mazraoui has heard about his impact in Scotland and reckons it won’t be long before he joins him in the international set-up. And he’s adamant United will need to be wary of Igamane at Old Trafford on Thursday night when the clubs meet for a Europa League Battle of Britain.
Mazraoui said: “The people in Morocco are speaking about Igamane’s goals in Scotland. It’s not easy to score in a good league so it shows he’s working well at Rangers. It won’t be unusual if he makes it to the national team but obviously it’s the choice of the coach.
“Stopping Igamane is one of the challenges for us. He has been excellent for Rangers. Our defenders will need to pay attention to him and not give him space in the penalty area. That will be really important.”
Mazraoui believes United are on the right track again under new boss Ruben Amorim after a disastrous start to their Premier League campaign. They’re just a point ahead of Rangers in the Europa League table and the 27-year-old wants a victory in midweek to cement their qualification for the knock-out phase.
Mazraoui said: “The team has recovered its confidence after our recent performances in the FA Cup and Premier League. Now it’s necessary to continue that in the Europa League against Rangers. We’re optimistic of getting three points at home.
“Of course, it will be an intense match between two British teams and we’re very equal in the table. But playing at Old Trafford should be a big advantage for us.
“Rangers have an excellent squad with players who can generate problems for any team. I expect them to qualify for the next round of the competition. They deserve it for their work in the first six games.
“Our history and the Manchester United supporters demand that we must improve this season and the Europa League is one of our targets. But now all we are thinking about is the defeat of Rangers.”