Mbeumo’s Impact at Manchester United and Upcoming AFCON Participation

Mbeumo had an outstanding season with Brentford in the 2024-25 campaign, scoring 20 league goals and providing eight assists across 38 matches, making him the fourth-highest goalscorer in the Premier League. His exceptional performance caught the attention of Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who made a substantial investment of £65 million ($87 million) to secure the winger’s services. Amorim recognized Mbeumo as a crucial component in his squad’s transformation following a challenging debut season at Old Trafford.

In his first season with the Red Devils, the 26-year-old has continued to impress, scoring four goals and registering one assist in ten league appearances. Notably, Mbeumo shone last month by netting three goals and assisting another, playing a vital role in United’s resurgence after a slow start to the season. His dynamic performances showcased his growth and tactical acumen, as Amorim has granted him the freedom to attack from the right while also making incursions into central positions. This form earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for October.

Mbeumo is anticipated to receive a call-up to the national team next month as Cameroon prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, starting December 21. According to FIFA regulations, clubs must release players two weeks prior to major tournaments, which poses a scheduling conflict as United faces Wolves on December 8, just as Cameroon begins its preparations.

Reports suggest that Manchester United will appeal to the Cameroon Football Association, headed by the legendary Samuel Eto’o, to allow Mbeumo to remain in England for critical matches against Bournemouth and Aston Villa on December 13 and 21, respectively.

Mbeumo has expressed a clear desire to navigate this potential conflict thoughtfully, aiming to satisfy both his employer and his national team without causing disruption.

In addition to Mbeumo, United will also be without key players Noussair Mazraoui and Amad, who are set to represent Morocco and the Ivory Coast, respectively, in the AFCON. Addressing the absence of these pivotal players, Amorim remarked: “We will have time to suffer. We are going to struggle a little bit, but we already knew it would be an opportunity. Our training sessions reveal players deserving of playtime, but altering the lineup is challenging when they are performing well in games. Other players will have the chance to contribute and adapt to our playing style, ensuring that the team’s momentum remains intact. We will utilize Amad and Bryan in these matches, and we’ll evaluate the overall impact.”

After a commendable October marked by three consecutive victories—something United had not achieved earlier in Amorim’s tenure—the team’s momentum slowed with a 2-2 draw against Forest last weekend. Despite the draw, United has climbed to eighth in the Premier League table, accumulating 10 points from their last four matches. The team now aims to reclaim their winning form as they prepare to face Tottenham in North London this Saturday.