'We will struggle' — Man Utd boss Amorim admits club will miss AFCON stars

Ruben Amorim has admitted that Manchester United will struggle during the 2025 AFCON.

Manchester United's recent run of form, which has seen them achieve a three-game winning streak for the first time under Rúben Amorim, is now under threat due to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

One major reason for their upturn in form has been £71 million summer signing Bryan Mbeumo, who followed his goal against Liverpool with a crucial brace against Brighton.

Equally impressive has been Amad Diallo, who has forged an excellent partnership with Mbeumo on the right flank and was recently hailed by Amorim for his performance at Anfield.

However, Amorim is now facing a major blow as both Cameroon and Ivory Coast have successfully qualified for AFCON. This means Mbeumo and Amad—if selected by their national teams, will be unavailable for up to a month during a crucial period spanning December and January.

Amorim acknowledged the challenge but framed it as an opportunity for other players.

“We will have time to suffer. We are going to struggle a little bit, but we already knew it was going to be an opportunity for other players to get a chance,” Amorim said in his pre-Nottingham Forest press conference.

He added that the duo will be utilized heavily until they depart: "We will use Amad and Bryan in these games and we will see in general."