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Manchester United have been handed a major Noussair Mazraoui concern after he pulled out of international duty.

The Moroccan fullback picked up an issue during the Red Devils’ miserable 0-0 draw against Aston Villa at the weekend. He was withdrawn at the half-time interval.

And it appears that the injury has been severe enough to see Mazraoui pull out of international action. The ex-Bayern Munich defender had initially been called for this month’s African Cup of Nations qualifying double header against the Central African Republic.

But he has since been replaced. A statement from the Moroccan Football Federation read: “Coach Mr. Walid Regragui has called up Youssef Belammari to replace Noussair Mazraoui for two matches against Central African Republic.”

Erik ten Hag had previously spoken out on Mazraoui’s injury but admitted it was still too early to make a judgement on how long he could be sidelined for. Speaking after the draw with Aston Villa, the Dutchman said: "We have to take them off at half-time. Tomorrow we have to see what is the diagnosis on it."

He added: "We have to assess this. I can’t tell you now what the issue is. I know what the issue is but how good or bad it is. We have to see assess this tomorrow and then we will bring you news."

Mazraoui’s injury would certainly be a concern given the role he has played this season. The 26-year-old has started every game but one in all competitions this term following a summer switch from Bayern Munich.

Noussair Mazraoui has been forced out of international duty ( Getty Images)

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The news of his international withdrawal also came on a bruising day for the Red Devils. Both Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo were also forced to pull out of the Argentina and England squads respectively.

Garnacho has been forced out with a knee injury that he chose to play through in the drab draw with Aston Villa. He has been replaced by Leicester loanee Facundo Buonanotte.

Garnacho confirmed the news on Instagram. He wrote: “I’ve had knee problems for the last two games and I’m not able to be with the national team, but I hope to recover quickly and be with them for the next matches.”

Mainoo was one of three England stars to pull out of upcoming games against Greece and Finland. Morgan Gibbs-White and Ezri Konsa have also returned to their clubs, with no replacements for the trio planned.

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