The deadline for clubs to release players for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been extended to 15/12, allowing Mbeumo and Diallo one more week with Manchester United before joining their national squads. Initially, clubs were required to release players by 8/12.

This flexibility stems from positive discussions, led by FIFA, between the Confederation of African Football (CAF), member associations, and the European Club Association. These talks have gradually eased player release regulations in recent years. For AFCON 2021, CAF permitted Premier League players to join their national teams six days before the tournament's start. Last year, goalkeeper Andre Onana played for Manchester United on 14/1 before immediately flying to Ivory Coast to join Cameroon, whose first match was the following day.

Diallo (left) has contributed one goal and two assists, while Mbeumo has five goals and one assist for Manchester United in the Premier League this season. Photo: EPL

Diallo (left) has contributed one goal and two assists, while Mbeumo has five goals and one assist for Manchester United in the Premier League this season. Photo: EPL

For AFCON, which begins on 21/12 in Morocco, the "Red Devils" will be without Mbeumo (Cameroon), Diallo (Ivory Coast), and Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco). The final match this trio can play for Manchester United is against Bournemouth in round 16 of the Premier League, coinciding with the 15/12 release deadline.

The earliest Mbeumo, Diallo, and Mazraoui could return to Manchester is if their national teams fail to advance past the group stage. This would mean a return on 31/12 for Mbeumo and Diallo, and 29/12 for Mazraoui. The latest possible return would be if these players participate in the final, scheduled for 18/1/2026.

The number of club matches Mbeumo, Diallo, or Mazraoui will miss depends on their national teams' performance. They are likely to miss at least three Manchester United matches during the Christmas period, facing Aston Villa, Newcastle, and Wolverhampton. Additionally, the "Red Devils" are expected to play one match in FA Cup round three.

Beyond Manchester United, other teams will also face squad shortages during AFCON, including Liverpool with Mohamed Salah and Tottenham with Pape Matar Sarr. Sunderland is expected to be the most significantly impacted, with seven first-team players departing. Wolverhampton will also be challenged, temporarily losing five players, while Nottingham Forest will see four players leave.

In contrast, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Leeds are among the few Premier League clubs unaffected by AFCON 2025.

This season, Manchester United's performance has been inconsistent. After 13 Premier League matches, they have won 6, drawn 3, and lost 4, placing them ninth with 21 points. This is 12 points and one match fewer than league leaders Arsenal.

Vy Anh