The youngster requested not to take part in the tournament (Picture: Getty)
Tunisia boss Jalel Kadri has revealed that it was Hannibal Mejbri’s decision to withdraw from the Africa Cup of Nations squad as he enters a crucial point in his career.
The Manchester United youngster, who has 27 caps for his nation, was expected to take part in next month’s tournament but was a surprise omission when the squad was announced on Thursday.
Although Hannibal has only featured sparingly for United this season – he has just one start in the Premier League – that was not a factor in his non-selection.
According to Kadri, it was actually Hannibal’s decision not to take part in the tournament and he requested to be left out so he could prioritise his development as he reaches a potential crossroads in his career.
Asked about Hannibal’s absence, the Tunisia boss told reporters: ‘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.’
Although United’s injury crisis has presented a few opportunities for the midfielder, giving a lively cameo off the bench late on in Boxing Day’s 3-2 victory over Aston Villa, he looks set to leave on loan when the transfer window opens.
Hannibal is believed to have three offers from top-flight clubs on the continent, with Sevilla, Lyon and Freiburg all interested.
Hannibal has several clubs keen to take him on loan (Picture: Getty)
However, all three clubs need him to be available across January and February, something that would not be possible if Tunisia have a deep run at the Africa Cup of Nations.
He has therefore asked to be left out of the squad in order to secure regular, top-level game time for the second half of the campaign – something he feels is imperative for his development.
United rate the youngster highly and also feel another loan is an ideal next step and he is expected to sign a contract extension before leaving for his six-month loan.
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Hannibal enjoyed a solid spell in the Championship with Birmingham City last season, but Sevilla, Lyon and Freiburg represent a big step up and he will now assess the offers before deciding his destination.
In other Africa Cup of Nations related news, United goalkeeper Andre Onana has been selected in Cameroon’s squad for the tournament despite doubts over his participation.
The shot-stopper retired last year after falling out with manager Rigobert Song, but he has been coaxed into a return and could miss up to six games for the Red Devils, with summer signing Altay Bayindir to step up in his absence.
MORE : Manchester United starlet surprisingly left out of Afcon squad in order to secure January loan move
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