Manchester United are looking to strike a compromise with Cameroon regarding the release of Bryan Mbeumo for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, but the negotiations could disrupt the Indomitable Lions’ preparations.
Mbeumo, who joined Manchester United from Brentford in a £65 million transfer during the summer, has made an immediate impact at Old Trafford. With four goals in his first ten appearances and recognition as Premier League Player of the Month for October, the forward has quickly become a key figure in Ruben Amorim’s squad.
However, Mbeumo’s form comes at a critical time as Cameroon prepares for AFCON 2025, beginning on December 21. The striker is also expected to play a vital role in the country’s World Cup qualifiers this month, raising the potential for a clash between club and country duties.
The player himself is keen to avoid conflict, leaving the decision on his release date to Manchester United and the Cameroonian Football Federation. Under FIFA regulations, clubs must release players two weeks before a major international tournament, which could see United without Mbeumo, along with teammates Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) and Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), for up to six weeks.
Manchester United’s main concern is a fixture against Wolves on December 8, coinciding with the start of Cameroon’s pre-tournament training camp. The club is reportedly seeking permission for Mbeumo to remain available for key matches against Bournemouth on December 13 and Aston Villa on December 21, hoping to reduce the impact of his absence.
Cameroon officials are expected to discuss release dates during their upcoming World Cup qualifier meetings in Morocco. The negotiations come after past tensions surrounding Andre Onana’s AFCON call-up, when a late arrival led to the goalkeeper being benched and caused friction with then-coach Rigobert Song.
Mbeumo wants a clear agreement to prevent a similar situation, while United will likely pursue comparable arrangements for Mazraoui and Amad. With Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and Morocco all strong contenders, Manchester United faces the prospect of losing several African stars for an extended period if their teams progress deep into the tournament.
Balancing club priorities with international ambitions will be crucial, as both United and the African nations aim to maximize their chances in domestic and continental competitions.
