Man Utd sweat on Africa Cup of Nations trio

Ruben Amorim has indicated that Manchester United remain uncertain regarding the participation of Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Amad Diallo in the upcoming match against Bournemouth on Monday, prior to their commitments with the Africa Cup of Nations.

FIFA, the international football authority, revealed last week a shortened release window for the tournament by seven days, commencing on Monday, December 15, 2025.

With United set to entertain Bournemouth on that date, Amorim mentioned he lacks definitive information on the status of these three squad members who will represent their countries in Morocco.

Mbeumo, the Cameroon forward, leads Uniteds Premier League scoring chart this term with six strikes, and Diallo of Ivory Coast has enjoyed consistent involvement.

Mazraoui, the Moroccan full back, has faced fitness issues yet featured from the outset in recent fixtures versus West Ham and Wolves.

We continue discussions with the international sides, Amorim informed the press on Friday.

The match occurs in just a few days. The players are present, undergoing sessions, and we are devising various plans to ready ourselves for the encounter.

Amorim expressed irritation over the uncertainty but noted: We possess sufficient depth to handle any circumstance, and with an extended preparation period, numerous options arise to tailor our approach regardless of the outcome.

Mazraoui anticipates featuring for Morocco, the tournament hosts, in their initial clash against Comoros on December 21.

Mbeumo and Diallo are scheduled for their opening appearances three days thereafter.

When pressed on the timeline for resolution concerning the three, Amorim responded: Im uncertain if circumstances will mirror previous cases.

It hinges on the fixtures. Each federation holds distinct views on player arrival times.

I anticipate a verdict today or possibly tomorrow, though we will hold out until the final opportunity to field the optimal lineup for kick off.

Defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt will miss the Bournemouth encounter, whereas forward Benjamin Sesko might return following a knee problem incurred at Tottenham five weeks prior.

United occupy sixth position in the Premier League following their 4-1 triumph at Wolves this week.