Amorim Seeks AFCON Player Release Delay to Avert Crisis, Mazraoui Included

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim is preparing for one of the most sensitive periods of the current season, as three of his key players are set to be absent for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco between December 21, 2025, and January 18, 2026. Noussair Mazraoui is the most notable absence; the Moroccan international is a cornerstone of Walid Regragui's system and a vital component of Amorim's tactical plans at Manchester United. The team also anticipates the departures of Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast) and Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon).

CAF regulations mandate clubs to release their players two weeks before their national teams' first match in the tournament. This means Manchester United could be without the trio before their December 8 fixture against Wolverhampton, a period characterized by a demanding match schedule. Despite this, Amorim is attempting to negotiate with the respective federations to delay the players' departure until December 15, allowing them to participate in the match against Bournemouth. The Portuguese coach stated during the press conference ahead of the Everton game: "There are clear rules, but we are trying to keep the players with us for longer. It's not entirely in our hands, but we will talk to the national federations."

Mazraoui, Amad, and Mbeumo are all expected to play prominent roles for their national teams during AFCON, potentially leaving United vulnerable during a period that could define their season. Nevertheless, Amorim affirmed the club's ability to adapt to this challenging situation, stating: "We have to adapt. This is part of the responsibility of managing a big club like Manchester United."