Manchester United set to lose Eric Bailly for up to five weeks after the Ivory Coast qualify for Africa Cup of Nations


Jose Mourinho is set to lose Eric Bailly for up to five weeks between January and February after the Ivory Coast qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 22-year-old has made a blistering start to life at Old Trafford after his £30million move from Villarreal.

The defender has been United’s most consistent performer and looks to be developing a strong partnership with Daley Blind in the heart of United’s defence.

The Ivory Coast needed to avoid defeat against Sierra Leone to make January’s tournament and a 1-1 draw means the Elephants have now qualified.
Bad news: Man United set to lose Eric Bailly for up to five weeks
Bailly has made an excellent start to life at Old Trafford

Bailly is a certainity to make the squad and the tournament begins on the 14th January, with the final on the 5th February.

It’s customary for players to meet up with their squads a fortnight before the tournament begins, meaning Bailly faces a maximum of five weeks out of the United side.

Jose Mourinho may well contest Bailly’s inclusion in any pre-tournament training squads but the Ivory Coast’s qualification will come as bad news to the 53-year-old.

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