Amrabat labels stunning Old Trafford debut as a ‘perfect night’

Sofyan Amrabat has described making his Old Trafford debut as a ‘perfect night’ after starring in Manchester United’s 3-0 League Cup win against Crystal Palace. The 27-year-old made his long-awaited first start for United on Tuesday since joining the club on a season-long loan from Fiorentina and showed his willing adaptability to help the cause.

Amrabat is usually deployed as a combative central midfielder but against United’s London visitors was forced to deputise at left-back while Sergio Reguilon was rested. He is the first Moroccan to play for United and admitted after the game that he has worked his ‘whole life’ for the opportunity to represent the club.

“I think it was the perfect night. We played very well and most importantly won 3-0. I played for an hour so I think [it was] a perfect night,” Amrabat told Sky Sports. “Since I was a child, I worked for this. I worked very hard my whole career, my whole life for this. To play here is amazing.”

“It’s Tuesday and the stadium is full, it’s fantastic. I told the manager I would play wherever he needs me, wherever the team need me, even if it’s goalkeeper.” Amrabat added. He had a bit of a free role and played a lot in the midfield. It was nice,” he added.

Amrabat previously worked with Ten Hag during a short spell together at Dutch side FC Twente and was a key summer target for the now-United boss. A back injury prevented him from being available for selection immediately after joining on transfer Deadline Day and Amrabat revealed he is still not at his best given a lack of training, but insisted he will be soon.

“I’ll play where the team needs me, I prefer to play in midfield but if it’s left-back, it’s left-back,” he said. “I’m not at my best at the moment because I’ve not had a perfect pre-season and a little injury. I’ve trained really hard the last two or three weeks to get to 100% but I need games. If you play games you get stronger and better.”

“It’s not been the most easy time but it’s clear United is a huge club. The pressure is high but we want this. We want to win and we’ll push very hard to win and give the fans much more.”