Manchester United have received a significant boost with the news that striker Benjamin Sesko has avoided a major injury, though he is still expected to miss several weeks of action.
Injury Scare Eases for United
The 22-year-old Slovenian international was forced to withdraw from his national squad after limping off with a knee problem late in United's 2-2 draw at Tottenham before the international break. Manager Ruben Amorim admitted he was initially "more concerned" due to the injury's location.
However, scans have since revealed a less severe issue. "He's going to stay a few weeks out," Amorim confirmed. "I don't know how long but it is not that serious. We have to be careful with him. He is doing the recovery, he is feeling better, so in a few weeks I expect to have Ben."
Squad Challenges Loom for Amorim
Sesko's absence adds to a challenging period for United's squad depth. The summer signing will definitely miss Monday's home Premier League fixture against Everton.
His anticipated return is set to coincide with the departure of three key players for the Africa Cup of Nations. Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), and Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) are all scheduled to join their national teams.
"I think it's going to be more or less at the same time," Amorim said of Sesko's return and the international exodus. Host nation Morocco begins their campaign on December 21, with Cameroon and Ivory Coast playing on December 24.
Navigating International Duties
United are in discussions with the relevant football federations about the precise release dates for their players, who are technically due to report two weeks before their first tournament match.
"We are doing our job to try to maintain the players a little bit longer but it's not just in our hands," Amorim stated, referencing the club's previous success in securing a later release for Andre Onana. "We need to respect that, but we will try to do everything to protect the club, protect the player and protect the national team."
The situation makes United's matches against Wolves on December 8 and Bournemouth on December 15 particularly crucial. Amorim acknowledged the concern but pointed to the club's academy as a potential solution. "It is an opportunity for other players. We have also the under-21s... our academy is for these moments and will be ready."
Defensive Concerns Persist
In other team news, defenders Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez remain unavailable. There is more optimism regarding Martinez's recovery, with Amorim noting, "I feel Licha is becoming close to being ready to play."
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is also a doubt for the Everton match after missing a training session, though the manager suggested a decision would be made closer to kick-off.
