Benjamin Sesko: Man Utd now ‘fear’ extended absence after fresh ‘setback’

According to a report by Metro on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Manchester United are concerned that Benjamin Sesko could be sidelined until the New Year after suffering a fresh setback in his recovery from a recurring shin injury.

The Slovenian striker has been unavailable for around a month, and the latest development has raised fears that his absence could be considerably longer than initially expected.

According to reports, Manchester United are concerned that Sesko could face a spell of up to four months on the sidelines, potentially keeping him out of action until January or February.

However, sources close to the 23-year-old reportedly remain hopeful that his recovery will not take as long as feared.

United are yet to publicly confirm the full extent of the injury or establish a definitive return date, leaving manager Michael Carrick waiting for further clarity on the striker’s condition.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Carrick admitted that the club was still working to establish a clearer picture of the situation.

“We are hoping soon that we will have a clear picture,” Carrick said. “I am not trying to delay it. Hopefully next time we speak, maybe not tomorrow but by the end of the week we will have something a bit clearer.

“There is a bit of work going on at the moment so we will see what comes out of that.”

Sesko joined Manchester United from RB Leipzig during the summer of 2025 in a deal reportedly worth around £74 million.

The forward showed encouraging signs during his debut campaign, scoring 12 goals in all competitions as he gradually adapted to English football.

He also found the net twice in his first six appearances this season, although Carrick initially used him as an impact substitute during United’s opening four Premier League matches.

His injury has now disrupted his progress at a time when United need consistency and a reliable source of goals in the final third.

The potential length of his absence could also force the club to reconsider its recruitment plans ahead of the January transfer window.

United reportedly did not sign another centre-forward during the summer because they were unable to move Joshua Zirkzee on. However, Sesko’s latest setback could leave the club short of options if his recovery takes several more months.

A January move for a striker could therefore become a serious consideration, particularly if United struggle to maintain their attacking output without the Slovenian international.

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