Manchester United Unveils Strategic Blueprint as Key Stars Depart for AFCON
Ruben Amorim, the Manchester United boss, aims to retain Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui for an extended period, postponing their international duty for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
The Red Devils are experiencing positive momentum under Amorim's guidance, with Mbeumo and Amad delivering standout performances, and the club has previously succeeded in keeping players beyond the required release timeframe according to tournament rules.
André Onana linked up with Cameroon just one day prior to their tournament opener in the previous Africa Cup of Nations, resulting in him missing only a single club fixture—an FA Cup third round match against Newport County.
While repeating such a strategy seems improbable, Amorim stated during his Friday press briefing that the objective is to keep Mbeumo, Amad and Mazraoui from reporting to their national squads during the designated two-week period before their initial matches.
"We understand the regulations regarding player releases [but] we are attempting to retain our players for a longer duration," Amorim explained. "This matter isn't entirely within our control. We shall see. We will attempt to negotiate arrangements with the respective federations."
Mbeumo's Outstanding Beginning at Manchester United
Mbeumo's promising beginning at Old Trafford has offered much-needed relief for United fans following a challenging previous year. The dismissal of Erik ten Hag and hiring of Amorim initially failed to reverse the club's declining trajectory in 2024–25, though the Portuguese manager's philosophy is finally beginning to connect with the squad—improved on-field displays indicating his tactical requirements are gradually being understood.
United's offensive capabilities have markedly improved with Mbeumo's inclusion, while he's been effectively supported on the right flank by Amad after his transition to right wing-back. Mazraoui hasn't made as significant an impact in 2025–26 due to fitness issues, but continues to be a flexible, crucial squad member.
Discussing how United will ultimately manage their absences during a period of fixture congestion, Amorim commented: "It presents a challenge but we anticipated this. It creates opportunities for other squad members.
"We also have our under-21 players available. We must deliver a statement during that period, so we'll assess the situation. Naturally, it's not optimal since they play vital roles in our team and our squad depth is limited, but our youth system exists for these circumstances and they will be prepared."
One positive aspect for United is their exclusive Premier League focus until the FA Cup commences in January—Amorim won't need to juggle European commitments or Carabao Cup fixtures following an unexpected second-round elimination to Grimsby Town in August.