Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim faces an anxious wait to discover whether three key players will be available for Monday's Premier League encounter with Bournemouth.
The Portuguese boss remains uncertain about the participation of Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui as discussions with their respective national federations continue regarding their release for the Africa Cup of Nations.
"We are still in conversations with the national teams, the game's on Monday, they are here, training and we are trying to prepare all scenarios," Amorim explained.
The United manager described the situation as "frustrating" but noted that the uncertainty keeps opponents guessing about his team selection.
Ruben Amorim has admitted the current situation regarding his African players is frustrating
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FIFA regulations permit clubs to retain players until seven days before their country's opening fixture in the tournament, which commences on Sunday, December 21.
This means Mbeumo and Diallo could theoretically remain with United until December 17, given that Cameroon and Ivory Coast do not begin their campaigns until Christmas Eve.
Mazraoui's situation differs considerably, however, as Morocco are hosting the competition and feature in the opening match on December 21, requiring the defender to report on Sunday.
United have previous experience navigating such negotiations, having successfully delayed goalkeeper Andre Onana's departure to Cameroon two years ago, limiting his absence to just one club fixture.
Defensive concerns mount further for Amorim, with Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt both ruled out of the Bournemouth visit.
Bryan Mbeumo, in particular, has proved a key player for United in recent weeks
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The Dutch centre-back is nursing a back complaint, which Amorim confirmed is not a serious injury but requires careful management due to ongoing discomfort.
"Harry Maguire is out, Matthijs de Ligt is out, Ben [Sesko] we have to see. We have to see if he's available, he has some food poisoning but let's wait, we have two training sessions still," the manager revealed.
The Slovenian striker has been sidelined since sustaining a knee injury against Tottenham five weeks ago, and his potential return hinges on recovering from the illness in time.
Benjamin Sesko's debut season at United has been plagued by injuries
| REUTERSAmorim holds Bournemouth in high regard ahead of Monday's fixture, describing them as "a top team, top manager with special players."
The United boss praised Andoni Iraola's work at the Vitality Stadium, calling it "special" and highlighting how the Spaniard has developed several players capable of performing at the highest level.
Rather than focusing on recent results, Amorim has studied how the Cherries approach each opponent, noting their aggressive pressing and direct style of play.
"I expect a really tough game but we need to win, especially at home," the Portuguese manager stated, underlining the importance of securing three points at Old Trafford.