Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has expressed his frustration as the club awaits clarity regarding the call-ups of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With the tournament fast approaching, the exact departure dates of these key players remain uncertain, causing disruption to Amorim's plans for the crucial Premier League fixture against Bournemouth.
The mandatory release date for clubs to allow players to join their national teams is set for Monday, December 15, 2025, the same day United are scheduled to host Bournemouth. Amorim admitted that discussions with the respective national teams are still ongoing, leaving him in the dark about the availability of the trio for the match.
"We are still in conversation with the national teams," Amorim stated. "The game is Monday, they are here and they are training, and we are trying to prepare all the different scenarios".
The uncertainty surrounding the players' availability has clearly frustrated the Manchester United boss. "It is frustrating," Amorim admitted. However, he remained optimistic, adding, "But nobody knows who is going to play, so it is a good thing. We have players to cope with everything. With a long week, you have time to prepare". He also stated that he expects to know more information soon.
FIFA has confirmed a rule change regarding the call-up dates for players participating in AFCON, shortening the release period by seven days. The release period will now begin on Monday, December 15. This decision was reached after consultations with key stakeholders, including the Confederation of African Football (CAF), to minimize the impact on clubs.
Amad is likely to represent Ivory Coast, while Mbeumo has been named in the Cameroon squad. Mazraoui is expected to feature for Morocco, the host nation. Amorim stressed that he was still unsure when the players would depart for Morocco.
Despite the uncertainty, Amorim remains focused on the upcoming match against Bournemouth. He acknowledged the quality of the opponent, stating, "I think they are a top team, top manager, with special players. I don't look to their results, I look at the way they face every opponent, and they press really strong".
Manchester United will need to find solutions to cope with the potential absence of key players during AFCON. The tournament is scheduled to begin on December 21, 2025, and conclude on January 18, 2026.
