According to a report by Fabrizio Romano on the 22nd of June, 2026, Manchester United star Noussair Mazraoui has revealed that he could consider retiring from professional football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as he hopes to dedicate his future to religious studies and serving his community.
The Moroccan defender made the surprising admission while speaking about his long-term ambitions beyond football. Despite still being an important player for both Manchester United and Morocco, Mazraoui suggested that he may not continue playing for many more years.
“I might decide to retire after the World Cup,” Mazraoui said. “Life is short. I want to memorize the Quran and become an Imam of a mosque one day.”
The comments have attracted significant attention from football fans around the world, with many expressing admiration for the 28-year-old’s commitment to his faith and his vision for life after football.
Mazraoui joined Manchester United with a reputation as one of Europe’s most technically gifted full-backs. His versatility, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in attack have made him a valuable asset for the club. Since arriving at Old Trafford, he has become a trusted member of the squad, capable of operating on either flank and in multiple tactical systems.
On the international stage, Mazraoui has been a key figure for Morocco for several years. He played a major role in the country’s historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, helping the Atlas Lions become the first African nation to reach the last four of the competition.
While many footballers aim to prolong their careers well into their thirties, Mazraoui appears to have different priorities. Memorizing the Quran is a highly respected achievement within Islam, requiring years of dedication and study. Becoming an Imam would also represent a significant responsibility, as Imams are expected to lead prayers and provide spiritual guidance within their communities.
Although Mazraoui stopped short of confirming that retirement is imminent, his remarks indicate that he is already planning for the next chapter of his life. For now, however, his focus remains on helping Manchester United compete for major honours and guiding Morocco through the ongoing World Cup campaign.
0 Comments