Why is Hannibal Mejbri out of Tunisia squad for AFCON?

The Tunisian youngster is set to leave Manchester United on loan this winter.

Tunisia manager Jalel Kadri has explained Hannibal Mejbri’s surprise omission from his squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Having already made 27 appearances for the Carthage Eagles, Mejbri was expected to feature in the upcoming tournament. Kadri has now confirmed reports that Mejbri voluntarily withdrew from Tunisia’s squad.

“Hannibal told me that he did not feel ready for the Africa Cup of Nations because he is going through an important situation at his club,” the manager said on Thursday.

Mejbri has made nine appearances for Manchester United this season, including one start in the Premier League. However, the Red Devils are reportedly looking to loan him out in the upcoming transfer window.

Freiburg is known to be leading the transfer race to sign Mejbri, while Sevilla and Lyon have also shown interest in signing the Tunisian star. However, all three clubs have reportedly told the player’s entourage that they need him during the AFCON.

Having already spent a short loan stint at Birmingham, Mejbri is keen on securing more playing time at a top-flight league. The imminent returns of Casemiro and Mason Mount from injury will further limit the 20-year-old’s playing chances if he stays at Old Trafford for the second half of the campaign.