Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo will miss more games after Cameroon advanced to the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals with a 2-1 win over South Africa. The Indomitable Lions will now face hosts Morocco on January 9, meaning either Mbeumo or fellow United player Noussair Mazraoui will be eliminated and return to Manchester.
One of the pair could potentially be available for the FA Cup tie against Brighton on January 11, though the Manchester derby on January 17 appears more realistic. Mbeumo has struggled for form at the tournament, providing only one assist in the group stage.
Cameroon boss David Pagou suggested Mbeumo may be putting too much pressure on himself. 'He's putting too much pressure on himself, but I think he will manage that,' Pagou said. 'He's a great footballer... He loves this team and really wants to commit to being as effective as possible.'
Mbeumo's absence adds to Manchester United's woes, with injuries to key players and just one win in five matches. Manager Ruben Amorim has also cast doubt on his long-term future, stating he will stay for 18 months or until the board decides to replace him.
