The news is life-threatening.The announcement that a highly significant player has been “diagnosed with rare heart condition” came from the board of Manchester United this morning. The guy in question was a notable talent.

The Red Devils have endured their worst ever start to a Premier League campaign having picked up just eight points from their opening seven games.

United’s fortunes have not been helped by the fact £52million signing Leny Yoro picked up an injury during pre-season and, to make matters worse, they’ve now been dealt another major blow.

According to Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, £17million summer signing Mazraoui will be sidelined for two months due to a cardiac arrhythmia diagnosis.

Cardiac arrhythmia, also known as an irregular heartbeat, occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or in an irregular pattern.

According to the NHS website, arrhythmias are experienced by more than 2 million people in the UK. Most people with an abnormal heart rhythm can lead a normal life if it is properly diagnosed.

They also note that it is not always possible to prevent an arrhythmia developing, although a healthy lifestyle can lower your risk of developing a heart condition.

Heart problems in football have been a prevalent issue in recent years, with the likes of team-mate Christian Eriksen, Sergio Aguero and Juan Izquierdo all suffering from them.

Three years ago, during Denmark’s opening Euro 2020 game against Finland, Eriksen collapsed on the pitch after suffering from a cardiac arrest.

The 30-year-old then became the first top-flight player to be fitted with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) – which has allowed him to continue playing.

Meanwhile, former Man City star Sergio Aguero was diagnosed with cardiac arrhythmia after experiencing chest pains 41 minutes into his first start for Barcelona back in 2021.

The striker required on-pitch medical attention shortly before half-time having complained of dizziness and shortness of breath during Barcelona’s game with Alaves

Manchester United’s struggles this season have deepened following news that £17 million summer signing Noussair Mazraoui will be sidelined for two months due to a cardiac arrhythmia diagnosis. This condition, characterized by an irregular heartbeat, has affected several high-profile players in recent years, including Christian Eriksen and Sergio Aguero.

Mazraoui’s absence adds to the club’s injury woes, with £52 million signing Leny Yoro also sidelined due to a pre-season injury. Mazraoui’s diagnosis is part of a broader issue in football, where heart conditions have become more visible, with many players facing serious health challenges.

Eriksen, who suffered a cardiac arrest during Euro 2020, was able to continue playing after being fitted with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). Similarly, Sergio Aguero experienced cardiac arrhythmia while playing for Barcelona in 2021, leading to his retirement.

Cardiac arrhythmia, while serious, can often be managed effectively if diagnosed early. Many individuals can lead normal lives with proper treatment, which will be key for Mazraoui’s recovery. However, this latest setback further complicates Manchester United’s already difficult start to the season, as they continue to struggle with a depleted squad.