Manchester United's preparations for their crucial FA Cup third-round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion have been hit by a significant injury and absence crisis, with up to five first-team players potentially missing Sunday's match at Old Trafford.
Key Absences for Crucial Cup Clash
Interim manager Darren Fletcher, overseeing his second game since replacing the dismissed Ruben Amorim, confirmed a depleted squad ahead of the weekend. Bryan Mbeumo will definitely be unavailable as he travels back to Manchester following Cameroon's Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final exit at the hands of Morocco.
Fletcher stated, "We will have the same players available for the game against Burnley so no new additions. Bryan [Mbeumo] and Nous [Mazraoui] will not be available." The Moroccan full-back, Noussair Mazraoui, remains on AFCON duty after his nation reached the semi-finals.
Injury Doubts and Return Timelines
Further compounding Fletcher's selection headache is the uncertain status of several players who recently returned from injury. Captain Bruno Fernandes, young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, and defender Harry Maguire all made comebacks in the midweek 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley.
Fletcher indicated a cautious approach, particularly with Maguire. "He's been out for a while so we will be looking at his load... I think Harry will be in that situation for the weekend," he explained, suggesting the centre-back's minutes may be managed.
The long-term absentee remains defender Matthijs de Ligt, who continues his recovery from a lower-back problem and is not expected back until February or March 2026.
Silver Linings and AFCON Returns
On a more positive note, Fletcher reported no fresh injury concerns from the Burnley match. Furthermore, winger Amad Diallo is expected to rejoin the squad in the coming days after his Ivory Coast side were eliminated from AFCON by Egypt.
His potential return, along with Mbeumo's, could be timely for the following Premier League fixture. Bryan Mbeumo is tentatively scheduled for a possible return against Manchester City on January 17, the same date pencilled in for Amad.
With United aiming to bounce back from their disappointing league draw and secure a place in the FA Cup fourth round, Fletcher faces a major tactical test as he juggles his limited resources against a dangerous Brighton side.
