Mazraoui returns to Morocco training in time for World Cup opener against Brazil

Noussair Mazraoui has returned to Morocco training and is on course to feature in their World Cup opener against Brazil at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, easing fears over the Manchester United defender’s tournament involvement.

Mazraoui suffered a shoulder injury just 29 minutes into Morocco’s warm-up friendly against Norway, forcing him off and casting serious doubt over his fitness. He has since completed light gym work before rejoining full training, putting him in contention for the Group stage fixture.

Brazil arrive at the tournament targeting a sixth World Cup title, and two of Mazraoui’s United teammates are set to line up against him. Casemiro — contracted at Old Trafford until the end of this month — and Matheus Cunha are both expected to feature for the Brazilians.

Manchester United have a significant contingent at the tournament. Altay Bayindir has been selected by Turkey, while Senne Lammens is part of Belgium’s squad. Lisandro Martinez will represent Argentina, and Manuel Ugarte has made Uruguay’s squad despite a difficult club season. Amad will play for the Ivory Coast, and Tyler Fletcher was called up to Scotland’s squad following a late injury.

Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes are named in Portugal’s squad, while Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford have been included in England’s group. If Casemiro is selected for Brazil, United will have 13 players across the tournament.

The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, got underway with Mexico facing South Africa in the opening fixture.