Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is preparing for a significant squad disruption, with three key players set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations. However, new predictions offer a potential silver lining for the Red Devils.
AFCON Supercomputer Forecasts United's Fortunes
Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui will all join their national teams for the tournament in Morocco, which begins on Sunday, December 21st. The final is scheduled for Sunday, January 18th in Rabat. According to a specialised Afcon Supercomputer model from BookmakersCameroun.com, the trio could return to club action at very different times.
The prediction suggests host nation Morocco are favourites to win their first title since 1976, edging out Senegal 1-0 in the final. If this proves accurate, Moroccan full-back Mazraoui would miss United's matches until the away clash with Arsenal on January 25th.
Potential Early Returns for Key Attackers
In a development that would benefit United, the supercomputer forecasts an early group-stage exit for Bryan Mbeumo's Cameroon. This scenario could see the influential winger back in contention for United's away fixture at Leeds United on January 4th. While disappointing for the player and his nation, it would be a major boost for Amorim's side.
The model also predicts that Amad Diallo's Ivory Coast will be eliminated by Senegal in the semi-finals with a 3-0 scoreline. Consequently, Amad would miss the Manchester derby on January 17th, as it coincides with the third-place playoff. His return is projected around the same time as Mazraoui's, potentially for the Arsenal match in late January.
A "Nightmare" Scenario for United's Campaign
The absence of Mbeumo and Amad, in particular, has raised serious concerns about United's attacking potency. Former United defender Paul Parker has labelled the situation a potential "nightmare" for the club.
"It is impossible for Man United to cope with the loss of Mbeumo when he leaves for the AFCON. They simply can't," Parker stated. "He is going to be a massive miss... He is seriously scary on that right-hand side."
Parker expressed similar worries about Amad's departure, questioning who could adequately replace their direct threat and creativity. "Combined with both of them being out, that is going to be a nightmare," he added, doubting whether other squad members could step up to the required level.
The supercomputer's forecast also contained other notable predictions, including a shock 1-0 defeat for Egypt and Mohamed Salah to Comoros in the round of 16. World Cup qualifiers South Africa and Algeria are tipped to reach the quarter-finals.
As the tournament kicks off, all eyes at Old Trafford will be on the progress of their three internationals, with hopes that the data-driven predictions of an early return for Bryan Mbeumo come true.
