Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui has had a minor corrective procedure on his heart after experiencing palpitations.
The Morocco international signed for the Red Devils in the summer from Bayern Munich and has started all seven of their Premier League games so far this season, with manager Erik ten Hag under pressure after watching his side pick up only eight points to sit 14th.
He was substituted at half-time of United’s 0-0 draw with Aston Villa last Sunday but Ten Hag was reluctant to reveal the severity of the problem.
Early reports had speculated the 26-year-old could be sidelined for around two months due to a diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmia, but the timeframe for his recovery following surgery is expected to be much shorter.
The Daily Mail understand it was a ‘precautionary’ procedure which was successful, meaning Mazraoui should be available for matchday selection in a few weeks.
Cardiac arrhythmia can cause an irregular heartbeat, either faster or slower, and over two million people in the United Kingdom experience it, according to the NHS. It is a relatively common condition and people can lead a normal life if it is diagnosed and treated appropriately.
There have been some high profile instances of footballers suffering heart problems in recent years. Christian Eriksen had a cardiac arrest while playing for Denmark during Euro 2020, while Sergio Aguero was forced to retire shortly after joining Barcelona after suffering chest discomfort.
United haven’t officially confirmed a recovery schedule but Ten Hag will be desperate for a quick recovery given his current woes in the full-back positions. Left-sided players Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are both currently unavailable, leaving Diogo Dalot to fill in with Mazraoui playing at right-back.
Centre-back Harry Maguire is facing a few weeks out while Kobbie Mainoo had to withdraw from the England squad. Leny Yoro is still recovering, Mason Mount has a head injury and Alejandro Garnacho was left out of Argentina’s roster due to discomfort in his left knee.
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