Manchester United suffer a major blow as striker Benjamin Sesko is expected to miss matches until January with a recurring shin injury

Manchester United have suffered a major setback after striker Benjamin Sesko was ruled out until at least January with a shin injury, leaving manager Michael Carrick with fewer attacking options during a crucial period of the season.

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According to a report by BBC Sport, the 23-year-old Slovenia international has not played for United since their Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton on September 16, when he was substituted in the 66th minute.

Sesko has undergone several medical examinations to establish the cause of the problem. Reports indicate that the injury is an impact-related issue rather than shin splints.

The latest setback follows previous concerns about the striker’s fitness.

He missed the whole of pre-season with a similar complaint, while the problem also flared up against Liverpool in May last season, forcing him to miss United’s final three Premier League matches.

Sesko joined Manchester United from RB Leipzig in August 2025 in a deal worth £73.7 million.

Since his arrival, he has made 38 appearances in all competitions, scoring 14 goals and providing one assist.

Despite missing eight matches, he finished last season as United’s joint-top Premier League scorer with 11 goals, level with Bryan Mbeumo.

His absence is particularly significant because he is regarded as the club’s only orthodox centre-forward, leaving Carrick with limited options in the position.

Sesko 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 problem has interrupted his progress.

The striker is expected to miss several important fixtures, including league encounters with Liverpool and Arsenal, as well as at least three Champions League matches.

His prolonged absence could also influence Manchester United’s plans for the January transfer window, particularly if the club decides to strengthen its attacking options.

United have endured a difficult spell in the league, with their only victory reported as coming against Ipswich on August 30.

They have also struggled to secure wins across competitions since September 10.

Tensions have reportedly increased following a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, after captain Bruno Fernandes criticised Carrick’s tactics.

Fernandes was an unused substitute during United’s subsequent 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth.

However, reports indicated that the pair held talks on Tuesday in an effort to resolve their differences.

Carrick had faced uncertainty over his position following the Bournemouth loss but was expected to remain in charge for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Chelsea, scheduled for 12:30 GMT.

With Sesko sidelined and the team struggling for consistency, the coming weeks could prove important for United’s campaign.

Also read: Liverpool, Man City Seal Dramatic Carabao Cup Wins

The club will need to find effective alternatives in attack while monitoring the striker’s recovery ahead of his anticipated return in January.