Manchester United duo officially withdraw from international duty

The international break has arrived at a crucial stage of the season, with Manchester United building strong momentum under Michael Carrick.

With the Reds pushing up the table and showing consistency in recent weeks, attention has shifted away from club football as players link up with their national teams.

This period is often seen as an opportunity for players to gain confidence and rhythm, but it also carries the risk of injuries and setbacks.

Carrick will be hoping to return to domestic action with a fully fit squad, especially with important fixtures on the horizon.

However, early developments have already raised concerns for United.

Bryan Mbeumo has withdrawn from Cameroon’s squad as a precaution after picking up a knock during his side’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, where he was substituted in the 71st minute, as Manchester United confirmed on their website.

The winger had initially been selected for Cameroon’s FIFA Series 2026 fixtures, where the Indomitable Lions are scheduled to face Australia in Sydney and China in Melbourne.

Those matches form part of an international tournament aimed at giving non-World Cup nations competitive fixtures, especially after Cameroon missed out on qualification following their defeat to DR Congo in the African play-offs.

Mbeumo’s withdrawal is not believed to be serious, but the decision has been made to avoid any risk of aggravating the issue.

United have not only been impacted by the withdrawal of Bryan Mbeumo but also by another withdrawal, this time involving centre-forward Benjamin Sesko.

The striker will miss Slovenia’s upcoming friendlies against Hungary and Montenegro as he continues to manage a fitness concern that has been closely monitored by the club in recent weeks.

Slovenia’s fixtures are part of their preparations ahead of future international competitions, with the coaching staff keen to assess squad depth during this window.

Sesko’s absence suggests United are taking no chances with his condition, prioritising long-term fitness over short-term involvement.

With World Cup play-offs taking place and several nations finalising their squads for the upcoming tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, this break is a pivotal one across international football.

For Manchester United, though, the focus will remain on ensuring their key players return fit and ready for the run-in.

Carrick’s side are next in action on Monday, 13 April, when they host Leeds United at Old Trafford in what could be another important step in their strong run of form.