Amad and Bryan Mbeumo impress at AFCON as Man Utd face selection blow

Manchester United duo Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo both impressed for their national sides at the Africa Cup of Nations — performances that may prove bittersweet for Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.

The pair departed Old Trafford after United’s thrilling 4-4 draw with Bournemouth and are now expected to miss at least the club’s next two fixtures.

Both Ivory Coast and Cameroon opened their AFCON campaigns with 1-0 victories on Wednesday evening, with United’s representatives playing decisive roles.

Amad was the standout performer for Ivory Coast, scoring the winning goal with a composed finish after reacting quickest to a loose ball in the penalty area. The winger rifled his effort into the far corner, earning widespread praise.

Just hours later, Mbeumo delivered for Cameroon, providing a precise assist for Etta Eyong, who finished clinically to secure all three points. Mbeumo’s influence was recognised with the player of the match award, mirroring Amad’s accolade earlier in the evening.

While Amorim will be encouraged by the form of his players on the international stage, the results may complicate matters back in Manchester.

Both Ivory Coast and Cameroon are now on the verge of qualification for the knockout stages, increasing the likelihood that Amad and Mbeumo will be unavailable for longer than initially anticipated.

That creates a potential short-term blow for United, who are already managing a congested fixture schedule and squad rotation concerns.

There is, however, a twist to come. Ivory Coast and Cameroon are set to face each other this weekend, meaning one of United’s players could see their tournament cut short.

While that would guarantee the return of either Amad or Mbeumo sooner than expected, it would also bring disappointment on the international stage — a trade-off that encapsulates the club-versus-country dilemma.

For now, both players have enhanced their reputations, but United will be watching developments closely.

Ivory Coast and Cameroon face each other this weekend, a fixture that will directly impact Manchester United’s short-term squad availability.

Ruben Amorim will hope for positive outcomes on the international stage — but privately may be keen to see at least one of his players return early as domestic demands intensify.