Manchester United are bracing themselves for a testing spell in the heart of the season as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations takes center stage. With domestic competitions piling up and decisive fixtures looming across the Premier League and FA Cup, the timing of the tournament could hardly be more challenging for clubs already navigating squad depth concerns. Among those most affected are the Red Devils, who will be without several key figures during the winter stretch, including Bryan Mbeumo.
United’s problems are compounded by the fact that Mbeumo is not the only absence. Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui have also departed to represent their respective nations, stripping head coach Ruben Amorim of what is effectively the entire right flank of his preferred starting lineup. For a team still searching for rhythm and consistency during a demanding campaign, the loss of three senior contributors at once presents a tactical headache and a stern test of squad resilience.
While international duty offers players a chance to shine on a continental stage and potentially return with renewed confidence, supporters at Old Trafford will understandably be more focused on how long they must cope without one of their most dynamic attacking outlets. With the festive fixture list packed tightly together and major matches scheduled in January, the question on many fans’ minds is straightforward: when can Bryan Mbeumo realistically return to Manchester United after AFCON 2025?
Understanding the AFCON 2025 Timeline
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is set to run from December 21 through January 18, spanning almost a full month of action. This winter scheduling represents a significant shift from tradition, as the tournament was originally planned for the summer. However, it was moved to avoid clashing with the expanded 2025 Club World Cup, which will take place in the United States.
The competition structure follows a familiar format, beginning with a group stage before progressing through knockout rounds. The group phase concludes on December 31, after which the Round of 16 begins in early January. Quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final then follow in quick succession, with the championship match scheduled for January 18.
This timeline is crucial for clubs like Manchester United, because players only return once their national teams are eliminated. Unless there is an injury or special arrangement that sends a player home early, club managers must wait patiently until their stars’ AFCON journeys come to an end.
Cameroon’s Uncertain Prospects
Cameroon, Mbeumo’s national team, are traditionally one of Africa’s most respected footballing nations. As five-time champions, they typically enter AFCON tournaments among the favorites. However, the build-up to the 2025 edition has been far from smooth.
The Indomitable Lions have endured a turbulent year marked by internal disputes and administrative chaos. A public power struggle involving FA president Samuel Eto'o and head coach Marc Brys has cast a shadow over preparations. Confusion has even extended to squad selection, with conflicting rosters announced amid the ongoing feud. Such instability inevitably raises questions about team unity and performance levels heading into a major tournament.
Adding to the uncertainty is Cameroon’s challenging group. Drawn alongside reigning champions Ivory Coast, as well as Gabon and Mozambique, there are no guarantees of an easy passage into the knockout rounds. Each group-stage match will be fiercely contested, making it difficult to predict exactly how far Cameroon will progress.
When Could Mbeumo Return?
In the most optimistic scenario for Manchester United, Cameroon could be eliminated at the end of the group stage. Since the final group games take place on December 31, this would theoretically allow Mbeumo to return to England in time to be considered for selection in early January fixtures. If that happens, he could potentially be available for United’s league clash away at Leeds United on January 4.
However, assuming an early exit may be risky. Given Cameroon’s pedigree, even amid internal turmoil, it would not be surprising to see them advance to the knockout rounds. A Round of 16 appearance alone would likely rule Mbeumo out of at least one additional Premier League match, while a deeper run would extend his absence significantly.
Should Cameroon reach the final on January 18, Mbeumo would miss several key fixtures for United, including high-profile league encounters and domestic cup action. In that scenario, his return would come only after the tournament concludes, potentially forcing Amorim to reshuffle his attacking options for much of January.
Matches Mbeumo Is Set to Miss
What is already clear is that Mbeumo will be unavailable for at least three Premier League fixtures during the AFCON group stage period. These include away and home matches that could have a meaningful impact on United’s league position.
If Cameroon progress beyond the group stage, the list of missed games grows. Potential absences include the trip to Leeds United, a challenging away fixture at Burnley, and an FA Cup third-round tie at Old Trafford. Most notably, a deep AFCON run could also rule Mbeumo out of the Manchester derby on January 17, a match that often carries enormous significance regardless of league standings.
A Test of Squad Depth for United
Mbeumo’s absence comes at a time when Manchester United are already navigating an uneven season. Injuries, form fluctuations, and tactical adjustments under Amorim have all played a role in inconsistent results. Losing a player who offers pace, directness, and versatility in the attacking third further complicates matters.
For Amorim, the AFCON period will require creativity and flexibility. Younger players and squad regulars will need to step up, while tactical tweaks may be necessary to compensate for the lack of natural width on the right side. How effectively United manage this period could define their momentum heading into the latter half of the campaign.
Balancing Club and Country
From Mbeumo’s perspective, AFCON represents a major personal opportunity. Performing well on a continental stage can elevate a player’s profile and confidence, benefits that can ultimately carry over to club football. While Manchester United supporters may be counting the days until his return, there is also hope that a successful tournament could see him come back sharper and more motivated.
Ultimately, the precise date of Bryan Mbeumo’s return will depend entirely on Cameroon’s fortunes in Morocco. Whether his absence proves to be a short-term inconvenience or a prolonged challenge remains to be seen. What is certain is that the coming weeks will test Manchester United’s depth, adaptability, and resolve during one of the most demanding stretches of their season.
