Manchester United are facing a significant attacking setback after their summer signing, Benjamin Sesko, suffered a knee injury that is expected to keep him out of action for up to a month.
Injury Blow During Tottenham Clash
The £73.7million striker was forced to limp off the pitch during the dramatic 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur before the international break. The incident left manager Ruben Amorim's side to finish the match with ten men, as all substitutions had already been used.
Sesko subsequently withdrew from international duty with Slovenia to begin his rehabilitation at the club's Carrington training base. While the club has confirmed the 22-year-old has avoided serious damage, sources indicate he is still likely to face an extended spell on the sidelines, estimated at three to four weeks.
Amorim's Attack Dilemma
The timing of the injury is particularly problematic for United. With key attackers Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui soon departing for the Africa Cup of Nations, Sesko's absence could leave the squad critically short-handed in forward positions.
Speaking after the Tottenham match, a concerned Amorim said, 'I'm concerned with the injury because it's in the knee. We need Ben to be a better team. We have to check everything.'
This injury crisis forces Amorim to find creative solutions. Matheus Cunha is the most likely candidate to fill the void as an unorthodox number nine, a role he started in against Tottenham. The situation also presents an opportunity for Joshua Zirkzee, who has been frustrated with his limited playing time this season, to step up and prove his worth.
Pressure on the Squad
The injury places additional pressure on other squad members to remain fit. Mason Mount will be crucial in helping to plug the gaps left by the absent attackers.
Sesko's start to life at Old Trafford has been challenging. He has faced criticism, notably from former United defender Gary Neville, and has registered two goals and one assist in his 11 Premier League appearances. The club's gamble on him as their only recognised central striker looks even more pronounced now, especially after allowing Rasmus Hojlund to leave on loan and with 17-year-old Chido Obi developing with the Under-21s.
