Manchester United will lose more players than Man City, Liverpool and Newcastle United combined next month

The Africa Cup of Nations is just around the corner and the winter tournament could play a crucial role in shaping the Premier League season.

The majority of top flight clubs will lose players to their countries in what will be a crucial period in the season coming on the back of a busy Christmas period and with teams targeting progress in the FA Cup. United, in the chasing pack as they seek a top four spot, will be hindered more than most.

Erik ten Hag's side will see four players depart for Africa. Starting goalkeeper Andre Onana is potentially the biggest loss with the Cameroon international having played every minute for the Reds since his summer arrival from Inter.

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And while he's made some high-profile mistakes in a shaky start to his United career, his potential replacement Altay Bayindir hasn't kicked a ball since his arrival. The Reds also have veteran Tom Heaton as an option between the posts.

Elsewhere, United will lose loanee Sofyan Amrabat who will link up with Morocco. He's been in and out of the side since arriving from Fiorentina but with Casemiro injured, Amrabat has an important role to play in defensive midfield.

Ten Hag will also see Hannibal Mejbri (Tunisia) and fit-again Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast jet off. The latter has been injured this term but his loan spell at Sunderland last season showcased his potential and his departure leaves United with one less option. Hannibal has forced his way into the senior set-up this season and while starts have been hard to come by, he is a regular in the matchday squad and will leave United another body down in midfield.

Only Nottingham Forest - with seven -