Man Utd facing Bryan Mbeumo blow as forward set to miss multiple games

Cameroon’s Bryan Mbeumo will likely miss several Manchester United matches during AFCON, potentially weakening United’s attack. Punters might back under 2.5 goals for United in affected fixtures or consider staking on opposition/home draws between Dec–Jan, especially if Cameroon progress deep into the tournament and Mbeumo misses up to eight games.

Mbeumo to Miss Key Manchester United Matches as AFCON Calls

Bryan Mbeumo will be absent from Manchester United for a run of matches after being called up by Cameroon for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The winger has been one of United’s most influential attackers since his summer arrival following a £65m move from Brentford, and his international duty threatens to disrupt United’s momentum.

AFCON Schedule and Cameroon Group

The Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on December 21, with Cameroon opening their campaign against Gabon on December 24. Cameroon are drawn in Group F alongside Ivory Coast — featuring Amad Diallo — and Mozambique. The knockout stages begin in the New Year, with the final scheduled for January 18 in Rabat.

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Fixtures Mbeumo Is Set to Miss

Mbeumo will definitely miss Premier League games against Newcastle and Wolves between Christmas and New Year, and is very likely to be absent for the Aston Villa fixture played on the AFCON start date. He could also miss the December 15 home clash with Bournemouth depending on Cameroon’s preparation timeline. In January, United face Leeds (Jan 3), Burnley (Jan 7), an FA Cup third-round tie the weekend of Jan 10, and Manchester City (Jan 17) — all before the AFCON final. If Cameroon reach the final, Mbeumo could be unavailable for up to eight matches.

Form and Club Impact

Mbeumo has been central to United’s recent resurgence, scoring in August and netting three times across his last two appearances, including a brace in the 4-2 victory over Brighton. His physical work-rate and transition play have been highlighted by his manager, who praised his contributions and adaptability as a key reason United pursued the signing.

Betting Implications for Punters

Mbeumo’s absence reduces United’s attacking firepower for December–January fixtures. Punters should consider United matches with lower expected goal totals, such as under 2.5 goals markets, or alternative bets like double chance for opponents in tight home fixtures. If Cameroon progress deep into AFCON, expect longer-term impacts on United’s attacking returns, which may influence match and player props (e.g., fewer shots on target or goal involvements from United forwards).

Bottom Line

United face a potentially disrupted winter schedule without one of their in-form attackers. The exact number of missed games hinges on Cameroon’s progress, but the club must prepare for a meaningful absence that will shape team selection and betting markets across several Premier League and cup fixtures.

Manchester United will face a run of matches without Bryan Mbeumo.

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