Amorim Uncertain Over Mbeumo, Mazraoui and Diallo Availability Ahead of Bournemouth Clash
United Hold Talks With National Teams
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim says the club is still waiting to learn whether Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui and Amad Diallo will feature in Monday’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth before leaving for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
FIFA announced last week that the release period for the tournament will now begin on Monday, December 15, 2025, seven days later than initially planned. United host Bournemouth on the same day, leaving Amorim uncertain about the availability of the three players.
“We are still talking to the national teams,” Amorim told reporters on Friday. “The game is on Monday. The players are here, they are training, and we are preparing for every possible scenario.”
Key Players at Risk of Missing Out
Mbeumo, who represents Cameroon, leads United’s Premier League scoring charts this season with six goals. Ivory Coast winger Diallo has also played regularly under Amorim.
Mazraoui, a Morocco international, has battled injuries this season but recently started matches against West Ham and Wolves, strengthening his case for selection.
AFCON Schedule Complicates Selection
Morocco will open their AFCON campaign against Comoros on December 21, with Mazraoui expected to feature. Mbeumo and Diallo are due to play their first tournament matches three days later.
Amorim admitted the uncertainty has complicated preparations but expressed confidence in his squad. “It is frustrating, but we have players who can handle different situations. With a long week, we can work and prepare for the game in any case,” he said.
Injuries and Team News
Amorim confirmed that defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt will miss the Bournemouth match. However, striker Benjamin Sesko could return after recovering from a knee injury that has kept him out for five weeks following the Tottenham game.
United’s League Position
United sit sixth in the Premier League standings after a dominant 4-1 win over Wolves earlier this week. Amorim hopes to maintain that momentum as he waits for a final decision on his AFCON-bound players.
