Manchester United have finally received the confirmation they had long anticipated.
Man United star Amad Diallo has been officially named in the 28-man Ivory Coast squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
AFCON kicks off on 21 December 2025 and will run through to 18 January 2026.
The Red Devils play seven games during this period, including the FA Cup third round against Brighton & Hove Albion.
If Ivory Coast go all the way to the final, Diallo could be absent for the full set of seven matches.
As defending champions, Ivory Coast will expect Diallo to play a key role in their bid to retain the trophy.
Diallo began the campaign slowly, with both his performances and attitude falling short of expectations.
His form has been on the uptrend from October onwards, during which he registered one goal and two assists.
Even beyond the numbers, his impact in the final third has grown significantly.
Diallo has also built a strong and lively partnership with Bryan Mbeumo down the right flank.
His fearless dribbling draws defenders toward him, freeing Mbeumo to find space for key passes or strikes at goal.
The £44 million-rated star has been the undisputed starter at right wing-back and his absence will be a major cause of concern for manager Ruben Amorim.
Noussair Mazraoui has filled in there on occasion, but he too is likely to join Morocco for AFCON duty.
Diogo Dalot appears the safest fallback option, while young Bendito Mantato could be a genuine wildcard pick.
The 17-year-old is a left-footed winger by trade and could offer fresh dynamism if deployed at right wing-back.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com