When does Amad Diallo return from CAN? Return date planned for Ivorian Man United star

Manchester United were one of the Premier League teams hit hardest by the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Red Devils have lost Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui for the tournament, and given that is effectively the entire right side of their first choice XI, it is a significant puzzle for head coach Ruben Amorim to solve.

Diallo was particularly a big loss, as the Man United youngster has been impressive so far this season despite being hamstrung by playing winger in Ruben Amorim’s system.

Although a successful spell in Morocco could do wonders for their players’ morale amid another difficult season, United fans will likely be hoping to have their trio back in England as soon as possible, particularly given the busy schedule of festive fixtures and some big matches coming up in January.

Sports News takes a look at which games Amad is sure to miss and when he might be back at Amorim’s disposal.

MORE: The most successful teams in CAN history

When does CAN 2025 take place?

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations began on December 21 and runs for one month until the final on January 18.

Initially scheduled for last June and July, the CAN was pushed back to the winter due to the 2025 Club World Cup scheduled in the United States during the same period.

When does Amad Diallo return from CAN?

With Ivory Coast through to the last 16, Mbeumo will not be available for United until at least the week beginning January 5.

They will face Burkina Faso in the first knockout stage on January 6, the day before United’s match against Burnley at Turf Moor. If Les Elephants are eliminated, there is a chance Diallo will be available for the Red Devils’ next league match against Brighton on January 11 at home. Should they progress to the final, the striker would be unavailable for United for three further matches, including the Manchester derby on January 17.

Ivory Coast are generally considered a major contender at any AFCON, and they have been impressive so far at the tournament. They topped Group F in tiebreaker goals scored, with Amad himself scoring a key goal in the 1-1 draw against Cameroon.

Beating Burkina Faso in the round of 16 would see Ivory Coast face Egypt or Benin, with the winner meeting Senegal, Mali or Tunisia in the semi-final.

CAN Ivory Coast Calendar

Ivory Coast began their Group F campaign against Mozambique on Christmas Eve, before facing Cameroon and Gabon to finish the match unbeaten.

First place in the group allows them to face the round of 16 against Burkina Faso, finalist of Group E.

Group stage

Knockout stage

Man United schedule during CAN

Matches that Diallo will definitely miss

Matches Mbeumo could potentially miss