Benjamin Sesko Injury: Man United Striker Ruled Out Until January

Manchester United have suffered a major setback after striker Benjamin Sesko was reportedly ruled out until at least January with a shin injury, leaving the club short of attacking options during a crucial stage of the season.

The 23-year-old Slovenia international has not played for United since their Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton on September 16. He was substituted in the 66th minute of that match and has since undergone several medical tests to determine the cause of his ongoing problem, BBC Sport reported on Wednesday.

Sources cited in the report indicate that Sesko is dealing with an impact injury rather than shin splints. The issue has raised concerns because the striker has experienced similar problems before, including a complaint that kept him out throughout pre-season.

Sesko’s injury troubles also affected him towards the end of last season. The problem flared up during a match against Liverpool in May, forcing him to miss Manchester United’s final three Premier League games of the campaign.

Since joining United from RB Leipzig in August 2025 in a deal reportedly worth £73.7 million, Sesko has made 38 appearances across all competitions, scoring 14 goals and providing one assist. Despite missing eight matches, he finished last season as the club’s joint-top Premier League scorer with 11 goals, level with Bryan Mbeumo.

The striker has scored twice this season, finding the net against Everton in the Premier League and Sabah FK in the Champions League. After the latter match, he expressed relief at being free from injury, but the latest setback has interrupted his progress. His absence is expected to leave manager Michael Carrick with limited choices, as Sesko is regarded as the team’s only natural centre-forward.

Sesko could miss several important fixtures, including Premier League meetings with Liverpool and Arsenal, as well as at least three Champions League matches. His extended absence may also affect United’s plans for the January transfer window, particularly if the club decides it needs to strengthen its forward line.

The injury comes as United struggle for consistency. The report says their only league victory came against Ipswich on August 30, while they have been without a win in all competitions since September 10. Tensions have also reportedly increased following a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, after captain Bruno Fernandes criticised Carrick’s tactics. Fernandes was left on the bench for Sunday’s 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth, but the pair reportedly held talks on Tuesday. Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Chelsea, scheduled for 12:30 GMT.