AFCON Rules Cast Doubt on United Trio

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted he remains in the dark regarding the availability of three key players for Monday’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth.

The uncertainty surrounds Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Amad Diallo, who are all due to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The Clash with FIFA Dates

The confusion stems from a scheduling conflict. Last week, world governing body FIFA announced that the mandatory release period for the tournament “will be reduced by seven days and start on Monday, December 15, 2025.”

This date coincides exactly with United’s home fixture against Bournemouth.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Amorim confirmed that the club is still negotiating to keep the players for the match.

“We are still in conversations with the national teams,” Amorim said. “The game is just Monday. They are here, they are training, and we are trying to prepare all the scenarios for the game.”

Key Players in Limbo

Losing the trio would be a blow to United’s preparation.

• Bryan Mbeumo: The Cameroon winger is United’s top scorer in the Premier League this season with six goals.
• Amad Diallo: The Ivory Coast international has been a regular fixture in the side.
• Noussair Mazraoui: The Morocco defender has shaken off injury struggles to start recent games against West Ham and Wolves.

Mazraoui is scheduled to play in the AFCON opener for hosts Morocco against Comoros on December 21. Mbeumo and Diallo are set to play their respective opening matches three days later.

Waiting for Clarity

Amorim expressed frustration but insisted the squad has the depth to cope.

It depends on the games. Every national team has their ideas about when they want the players,” “he explained. “I expect today to have a decision or maybe tomorrow, but we are waiting until the last moment to have all the players to choose the best team.”

Sesko Could Return

Away from the AFCON dilemma, Amorim provided an injury update. Defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt remain sidelined for the visit of Bournemouth.

However, there is positive news regarding striker Benjamin Sesko. He could feature for the first time since sustaining a knee injury against Tottenham five weeks ago.

Manchester United currently sit sixth in the Premier League, fresh off a convincing 4-1 victory at Wolves earlier this week.

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