Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has been handed a mixed blessing after two of his key attacking players made a stunning start to the Africa Cup of Nations.
AFCON Opening Night Success for United Pair
Both Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo were instrumental in securing 1-0 victories for their nations on Wednesday evening, immediately after departing Old Trafford following the dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth. Their performances, however, mean they are now expected to miss at least United's next two fixtures, with their international commitments likely to extend further.
Amad, representing hosts Ivory Coast, announced his arrival at the tournament in spectacular fashion. The winger scored a superb goal on his AFCON debut, expertly controlling a loose ball in the penalty area before guiding a precise finish into the far corner. His match-winning contribution earned him the official Player of the Match award.
Mbeumo's Leadership and Assist for Cameroon
A few hours later, it was Bryan Mbeumo's turn to shine for Cameroon. The forward, taking on a more senior role within the squad, provided a crucial assist for Etta Eyong's decisive goal in their narrow victory over Gabon. Mbeumo's all-action display, which also included receiving a yellow card, was recognised as he too was named Player of the Match.
While Amorim will undoubtedly be pleased to see his players performing with confidence and delivering on the international stage, the immediate consequence for Manchester United is a prolonged period without their services. The club had already anticipated their absence, but the success of their national teams complicates the timeline for their return.
Knockout Qualification and Club Consequences
The major issue for United is that the victories have put both Ivory Coast and Cameroon on the brink of qualification for the AFCON knockout stages. This significantly increases the likelihood that Amad and Mbeumo will be unavailable for selection well into January, as originally feared.
Further drama is imminent, as the two United teammates are set to become direct opponents this weekend when Ivory Coast face Cameroon in a pivotal group stage clash. The result could dictate the knockout path for each nation and, by extension, determine which player might return to club duty sooner.
For Ruben Amorim, the brilliant form of Amad and Mbeumo at AFCON 2025 is a testament to their quality, but it also presents a clear short-term problem. He must now navigate a busy January schedule without two potent attacking options, whose absence is directly tied to their success thousands of miles away.
