AFCON exits open a rare window for Manchester United’s fringe stars
Manchester United face a winter period shaped by the Africa Cup of Nations as key players prepare for international duty, but the looming departure of Noussair Mazraoui, Amad, and Bryan Mbeumo could spark a positive ripple effect for the club. With the tournament taking several first-team regulars away from Carrington, head coach Ruben Amorim has a chance to shape the squad’s direction with a trio of fresh opportunities for players who have often hovered on the periphery.
Who’s unavailable and why it matters
Three players expected to leave for AFCON duty will temporarily leave a vacuum in United’s squad: a right-back with experience, a versatile attacker, and a top-level winger who can unlock defences in tighter fixtures. While the departures are not a reflection on their form, they do create a chance for others to stake a claim in the minutes available during the congested schedule ahead. The absence of these first-team presences means more game time for younger talents and fringe players, and potentially a rethink of tactical options for Amorim.
Noussair Mazraoui: a tested defender in a testing window
Mazraoui’s departure for AFCON means United will navigate the right side of their defence without one of their most reliable regulars. His experience at the highest level, coupled with his ability to contribute in build-up play, makes his absence a notable gap to fill. The opportunity, however, rests with a squad that can maintain defensive discipline and offer width on the overlap when required. For Mazraoui’s stand-ins, the challenge is clear: perform consistently, keep the backline organised, and demonstrate leadership in moments of pressure.
Amad: a chance to prove goal-threat and versatility
Amad’s AFCON commitment, depending on his country’s progression, opens the door for others to shine in an attacking sense. The winger and forward could leave a void in creativity and goal threat, but it also creates space for a player with similar attributes to step up. Amorim has repeatedly emphasised the importance of squad depth, and Amad’s absence may accelerate the development of a young attacker who can cut inside, arrive late in the box, and contribute with decisive finishes in domestic cups or league fixtures.
Bryan Mbeumo: a wide-forward option becomes available
Mbeumo’s potential AFCON departure leaves a gap on the flank where pace and direct running can destabilise compact defences. The window is a built-in trial period for other wingers to showcase their goal threat and assist ratios, while giving Mbeumo a less predictable threat level when he returns. The pressing question for the coach is who can maintain intensity, press with discipline, and deliver crosses or opportunistic shoots under pressure from opposition retrenched defences.
Opportunities for the squad: who steps up
With these three players away, several young talents and fringe options will gain the stage to show they can handle Premier League-level responsibilities. The focus will be on maintaining balance in midfield, ensuring defensive resilience, and tapping into the squad’s depth to preserve performance across a busy period that includes league, cup competitions, and potential European fixtures.
Strategic implications for Amorim
Ruben Amorim will need to balance risk and reward during AFCON-related absences. The experiment carries its risks, but the potential for discovering hidden gems or a more flexible tactical approach is substantial. The winter window could become a turning point for the squad: players who seize their chance could secure a regular role, while those who falter risk being left behind when the squad returns to full strength.
What fans should watch for
Supporters should look for: (1) increased minutes for younger attackers in domestic cups, (2) a willingness to experiment with formations that maximise the pace on the wings, and (3) a solid defensive plan that compensates for the temporary absence of Mazraoui. When AFCON concludes, the team may emerge more cohesive with a settled approach that can handle a demanding run of fixtures.
