Injury Concerns Mount for Benjamin Sesko and Sidelined Manchester United Star: Report

Manchester United attacker Benjamin Sesko is dealing with an injury that appears concerning, having sat out the Red Devils’ recent 1-1 draw against Fulham.

The Slovenian international has featured in six matches for the club this term, netting twice, but was unavailable for the clash at Craven Cottage, prompting manager Michael Carrick to start Matheus Cunha upfront instead.

Given that fellow Old Trafford key players Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford have also withdrawn from international duty due to fitness concerns, is Carrick on the brink of an injury dilemma?

Benjamin Sesko’s physical setback brings worrying news for Manchester United

Red Devils manager Michael Carrick

Manager Michael Carrick has received disappointing updates regarding Sesko’s fitness (Image credit: Getty Images)

Following Sesko’s complete absence from the matchday squad for the weekend fixture at Fulham, Carrick expressed cautious optimism regarding a quick recovery for his striker.

“He experienced some minor discomfort following our mid-week match,” the boss explained, in reference to their League Cup defeat against Brighton, continuing, “We are currently evaluating the situation: we’re hoping it isn’t serious, but we must wait for the results.”

Benjamin Sesko training alongside youth prospect JJ Gabriel with the Manchester United senior squad

The forward was unable to feature in the draw at Craven Cottage (Image credit: Getty Images)

Nevertheless, Slovenian media source Ekipa has reported that Sesko is scheduled for medical examinations, suggesting the initial outlook is not very promising.

The 23-year-old forward was sidelined for four weeks last season due to a knee issue, and subsequently sustained a shin injury against Liverpool in May, which disrupted his summer preparations.

“The situation is concerning based on his medical history, and it is equally worrisome because recurring issues cannot be easily fixed or quickly patched up,” Ekipa stated, further noting, “The most alarming aspect is that setbacks occurring without an obvious bone break are typically of a chronic nature.”

According to another Slovenian publication, Planet Nogomet, the player is set to have an MRI scan in London to evaluate a recurrence of the physical issues that have previously hindered him.

Although there are concerns that his shin trouble might be long-term, the striker’s overall physical record is respectable, as he was unavailable for just 12 fixtures during his stint with RB Leipzig.

Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig reacts after scoring against Borussia Dortmund in April 2024.

During his time at RB Leipzig, the striker missed only a dozen matches (Image credit: Getty Images)

Even though United have fitness worries regarding Rashford and Mainoo, sources indicate they are not facing long-term layoffs despite their withdrawal from the England squad.

In addition, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, and Tino Livramento will miss the upcoming Nations League matches for England, leading to call-ups for Morgan Gibbs-White and James Garner.

The forward commands a valuation of €75 million on Transfermarkt. Meanwhile, United are scheduled to face Tottenham Hotspur once Premier League fixtures resume in October.