Heartbreak for Cameroon but Relief for Man United as Bryan Mbeumo Set to Return After AFCON Exit

Manchester United are set to receive a significant boost with the return of forward Bryan Mbeumo, whose participation in the Africa Cup of Nations has concluded following Cameroon's quarter-final defeat to Morocco.

Bryan Mbeumo started for his country in a match that pitted him against his Manchester United teammate Noussair Mazraoui.

While Morocco's advancement means Noussair Mazraoui will likely miss United's upcoming Premier League fixture against Manchester City, Bryan Mbeumo is now expected to be available for selection.

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This development will be welcome news for the club, particularly with the crucial Manchester derby on the horizon.

The match against Manchester City could be the first for a new interim manager, following Darren Fletcher's temporary charge for the FA Cup tie against Brighton.

Manchester United have been without Mbeumo, Mazraoui, and Amad (Ivory Coast) for their last five league matches due to their international commitments.

With their AFCON duties now over, Mbeumo should be back in contention for United's key upcoming fixtures, including the home game against Manchester City on Saturday, January 17, and the trip to Arsenal on Sunday, January 25.

Meanwhile, in the quarter-final clash, Morocco took a 26th-minute lead through Brahim Diaz, who has impressively scored in every round of the tournament. The hosts maintained their 1-0 advantage until halftime.

There was a moment of concern for Manchester United in the second half when Bryan Mbeumo appeared to be injured after a challenge. However, despite initially hobbling, he was able to continue the match without any lasting issues.

Morocco secured their place in the semi-finals when Ismael Saibari doubled their lead in the 74th minute. Despite their efforts, Cameroon, with Mbeumo playing the full 90 minutes, could not find a way back into the game. Mazraoui and Morocco will now face either Nigeria or Algeria in the semi-final on Wednesday.