Africa-Press – Mauritius. Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, has admitted that his team could face challenges when key players Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) later this season.
The continental tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, will see both players represent their respective nations — Mbeumo for Cameroon and Diallo for Ivory Coast. United could also be without Noussair Mazraoui, should the Moroccan defender be called up by the host nation.
Mbeumo has been one of United’s standout performers this season, netting four goals, including a brace against Brighton, and registering one assist in the Premier League. Diallo, meanwhile, has formed an effective partnership with Mbeumo on the right flank, operating as a wing-back under Amorim’s tactical system.
Acknowledging the potential impact of their absence, Amorim said his side must prepare for the inevitable challenges while maintaining focus on the immediate fixtures ahead.
“We will have time to suffer. We are going to struggle a little bit, but we already knew it’s going to be an opportunity,” Amorim said.
“When I watch training, there are players that should be playing, but it’s hard to make changes when others are performing well. So, other players will have the opportunity to help us.
They are understanding the way we want to play, so if we keep improving, the change in personnel won’t affect our momentum. But let’s use Amad and Bryan in these games and see how it goes.”
Manchester United travel to Nottingham Forest this weekend, a fixture that coincides with the one-year anniversary of Amorim’s appointment as head coach. Reflecting on his time at Old Trafford, the Portuguese tactician described the past year as both a challenge and a privilege.
“It was a journey – a big journey,” Amorim reflected. “It was really tough, with good and bad moments. I learned a lot. Even in difficult times, I’ve stayed true to my beliefs.
Now, things are improving. It’s one of the biggest honours of my life, and I want to stay here for many years.”
As United prepare for a demanding festive period, Amorim’s focus remains on building consistency and depth — qualities that will be tested once AFCON duties call some of his key players away.
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