Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has received a significant double boost ahead of Monday night's Premier League encounter with Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
Key Duo Available Before Afcon Departure
Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are both set to be available for selection, despite the imminent start of the Africa Cup of Nations. The tournament's regulations require Premier League clubs to release players by Monday 15 December, the same day as this fixture.
Amorim had previously expressed frustration over the uncertainty, but the club appears to have successfully negotiated with the players' national teams. Mbeumo will join Cameroon for their opening match against Gabon on 24 December, while Diallo will link up with the Ivory Coast squad to face Mozambique on the same day.
United Aim to End Unwanted Record
The hosts will be desperate to build on last week's impressive 4-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. A win against the Cherries would see United draw level on points with fourth-placed Chelsea, providing a major lift in their pursuit of Champions League qualification.
However, history is against them. Manchester United have failed to beat Bournemouth in their last four attempts across all competitions. Furthermore, the visitors have won their last two trips to Old Trafford, both by a resounding 3-0 scoreline under manager Andoni Iraola.
Team News and Injury Updates
While Mbeumo and Diallo are in contention, United's defensive options remain limited. Centre-backs Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire are still absent, and striker Benjamin Sesko has been struggling with illness.
For Bournemouth, defender Marcos Senesi could be fit after suffering from cramps during the draw with Chelsea. Midfielder Lewis Cook continues to serve a suspension. The south-coast side, after a bright start to the campaign, are currently on a six-match winless run in the league.
The match is scheduled for an 8pm GMT kick-off on Monday 15 December at Old Trafford. Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the action live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage beginning at 7pm GMT.
