MU is troubled by the inability to arrange the playing lineup

Manchester United is facing a major squad dilemma ahead of their Premier League clash with Bournemouth on Monday evening.

The issue arises because coach Ruben Amorim has yet to receive official updates regarding the availability of the trio Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo, who are about to join their national teams for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

According to the latest FIFA regulations, clubs must release players for AFCON starting December 15. However, ironically, Man United's fixture against Bournemouth falls exactly during this period, complicating the situation significantly. Up to now, there has been no clear agreement between Old Trafford and the African football federations about the exact timing when players must leave the club.

Before the match, coach Ruben Amorim admitted he is in a rare state of waiting and uncertainty since taking charge of Man United. The Portuguese strategist stated that the coaching staff has to prepare multiple tactical plans depending on different scenarios regarding the presence or absence of these players.

Amorim shared that the Red Devils are continuously communicating with the relevant national teams. As the match approaches, the players continue to train normally with the team, but their participation remains uncertain. Although feeling quite frustrated by the lack of clarity, he also remarked that this uncertainty might serve as a distraction for the opponent, as Bournemouth cannot precisely predict which lineup Man United will field.

From a technical perspective, the absence of Mazraoui, Amad, or Mbeumo will undoubtedly impact the Red Devils' style of play. Mazraoui provides flexibility on the flank, Amad is a key creative force in attack, and Mbeumo possesses speed and high disruptive ability. Missing one or more of these players will force Amorim to rotate the squad and adjust tactics.

As the Premier League enters its intense year-end phase, every match carries great significance. For Man United, securing all three points against Bournemouth would not only improve their league standing but also build positive momentum before the squad is weakened by AFCON. However, all of Ruben Amorim’s plans currently depend on the final decisions from the national teams.