When is Amad Diallo back from AFCON? Return date for Man United's Ivory Coast star

Manchester United have been one of the Premier League teams to be hit hardest by the Africa Cup of Nations.

The Red Devils lost Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui for the tournament, and given that is effectively the entire right-hand side of their first-choice XI, it was a significant puzzle for head coach Ruben Amorim to solve — at least, until he was relieved of duties on January 5.

Amad's absence has been particularly felt, the youngster having performed well this season despite being deployed as both a wing-back and No. 10 at different times by Amorim.

As much as a successful time in Morocco could do wonders for the morale of their players amid another difficult season, United fans will likely hope that their trio are back in England as soon as possible, particularly given the hectic festive fixture schedule and some big games in January.

The Sporting News looks at the games Amad will definitely miss and when he could be back at Amorim's disposal.

MORE: Most successful teams in AFCON history

When is AFCON 2025?

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations began on December 21 and is contested for a month all the way up until the final on January 18.

Originally scheduled for this past June and July, AFCON was pushed back to the winter due to the 2025 Club World Cup scheduled for action in the United States over the same time.

When is Amad Diallo back from AFCON?

With Ivory Coast eliminated in the quarterfinals, Amad will be back with United this week.

Having been bounced by Egypt in a 3-2 thriller on January 10, the winger should be available for the Manchester derby on January 17.

Amad inspired a 3-0 win over Burkina Faso in the first knockout phase on January 6, the day before United faced Burnley at Turf Moor, and he also missed the 2-1 FA Cup home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Ivory Coast are regularly considered a major contender at any AFCON, and they had been impressive at the tournament right up until they ran into one of the annual contenders in Egypt. They topped Group F on the goals scored tiebreaker, with Amad himself scoring a key goal in a 1-1 draw with Cameroon.

Ivory Coast AFCON schedule, results

Group stage

Knockout stage

Man United schedule during AFCON

Matches Amad is guaranteed to miss