Moving to Bayern Munich FC, Moroccan Muslim player Noussair Mazraoui believes it was faith that helped him achieve his dream and get to where he is today.
“I have my religion,” Mazraoui told Bavarian Football Works.
“That’s number one in my life… [praying] helps me a lot to deal with things that don’t go my way, or things that turn out in my favor. This way of thinking helps me to go through life.”
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On 24 May 2022, Mazraoui signed a four-year deal with Bayern Munich, starting from 1 July.
The Moroccan professional footballer made the move from Ajax Amsterdam to become Bayern Munich new right back.
Muslim Company
As a practicing Muslim, Mazraoui prayers five times a day. At Bayern FC, he will find company in his Muslim teammates who will share prayers, including the new forward line leader Sadio Mané.
“We will certainly [pray together] during the season,” he said.
Mazraoui will also observe fasting Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
“It’s okay, but sometimes it’s also very exhausting,” Mazraoui shared.
“Many people don’t know what their body is capable of. The body can achieve a lot if the will is sufficient. It doesn’t affect my performance — sometimes, I even perform better during Ramadan. Because it is a holy month. My faith gives me strength and also drives me on the pitch.”
Along with Mazraoui and Sadio Mane, Bayern Munich has other Muslim players including German Jamal Musiala and Canadian Muslim Umar.
In 2018, Bayern Munich opened mosque at Allianz Arena to serve its Muslim players and fans.