Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has played down concerns over the looming absence of key players due to the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting the Red Devils are well prepared to cope as the Premier League season intensifies.
Amorim confirmed that Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui will soon depart Old Trafford to represent their respective countries at AFCON, ruling them out of crucial upcoming fixtures at a defining stage of United’s campaign.
The trio’s departure comes as Manchester United push for consistency and aim to secure a top-four finish over the next two months. United currently sit sixth in the Premier League, level on points with Liverpool, with the race for European qualification tightening by the week.
Amorim addressed the situation following a dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Monday night. While United impressed going forward, defensive lapses proved costly as they surrendered a lead and dropped valuable points.
Speaking to the media after the game, Amorim acknowledged the challenge posed by losing influential players but made it clear he trusts the squad at his disposal.
“Amad and Mbeumo will go for the AFCON now,” Amorim said. “We will try to find a solution with the players that we have. We are ready to cope.”
The Portuguese coach also hinted at tactical adjustments to maintain United’s attacking output during the tournament period.
“We will try to find a way to score the goals in a different way,” he added.
While Amorim struck a confident tone, the Bournemouth draw once again highlighted United’s defensive vulnerabilities. Conceding four goals at home underlined the need for greater balance as fixtures pile up and squad rotation becomes inevitable.
With AFCON removing pace, creativity, and defensive stability from his team, Amorim will be under pressure to ensure United remain competitive against direct rivals.
Manchester United now face a demanding run of matches, beginning with a trip to Villa Park to face an in-form Aston Villa, before returning to Old Trafford to host Newcastle United.
These fixtures could prove decisive in shaping United’s season, especially as they attempt to stay in touch with the Premier League’s top four despite key absences.
As AFCON unfolds, Amorim’s belief in his squad depth and adaptability will be tested. For United, the coming weeks may define whether their European ambitions remain realistic — or begin to slip away.
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