Manchester United face a fresh attacking setback after confirming that striker Benjamin Sesko is expected to miss around a month with the knee injury he picked up during the 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on 8 November.
The 22-year-old forward, who arrived from RB Leipzig for £74m in August, was introduced as a second-half substitute in that match but was unable to see out the game after suffering the issue late on.
Sesko’s injury initially raised concerns within the squad and among supporters, especially after head coach Ruben Amorim admitted shortly after the match that he did not yet know whether the problem was serious. However, while the uncertainty led to speculation, club sources have since downplayed fears of a major setback, indicating the injury is not thought to be long term.
Despite that reassurance, the Slovenian has already been ruled out of his national team’s World Cup qualifiers, and United now expect him to be sidelined for approximately four weeks. The exact timeline, though, remains dependent on further assessment.
Amorim is due to provide a more detailed update later this week during his pre-match press conference ahead of Monday’s Premier League clash with Everton at Old Trafford, scheduled for 20:00 GMT.
That briefing will likely offer greater clarity on Sesko’s recovery process and whether United’s medical team foresee any complications. The timing of the injury is especially unwelcome, as the club is preparing for additional forward-line disruption with Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The tournament begins in Morocco on 21 December, and while Premier League clubs are not expected to release players at the earliest permissible date, United still anticipate a period of limited attacking options.
With a home fixture against Bournemouth on 15 December and a busy winter schedule approaching, Amorim will be challenged to adjust his attacking plans. Sesko, who has scored two goals in 12 appearances since joining the club, had been gradually building rhythm as he adapted to life in the Premier League. His absence may prompt tactical reshuffles or increased reliance on alternative forwards during the crucial festive period.
As United await further news later this week, Sesko’s recovery will be closely monitored, with the club hopeful he can return swiftly and resume his integration into Amorim’s evolving system.
