Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo could miss up to seven Man Utd games while at AFCON

The pair, along with Noussair Mazraoui, will head off for AFCON duty once the official release date of 15 December arrives, with the tournament running into the January transfer window.

Losing Mbeumo and Diallo is seen as a significant blow. Mbeumo has arguably been United's best performer this season, while Diallo has grown into the wing-back role with confidence and consistency.

Their departures will force manager Ruben Amorim into difficult line-up decisions during a crucial phase of the campaign.

There is, however, a degree of uncertainty over exactly when the two attackers must report for international duty. Initially, both were expected to leave before 15 December, but the deadline for player release is later than first believed.

As a result, United will definitely have them available for Monday night's clash with Wolves and may even be able to call on them for the Bournemouth fixture on 15 December. Whether the club will receive clearance to use them in that match remains unresolved.

In the meantime, Amorim continues preparations for United's upcoming meeting with West Ham as he aims to secure a second successive victory.

He currently has almost a full squad at his disposal, but that luxury will be short-lived once AFCON begins and key figures depart, leaving United to navigate a demanding run with reduced attacking options.