Manchester United have been dealt a significant blow with new signing Benjamin Sesko expected to miss up to a month of action after suffering a knee injury during the dramatic 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur.
The Injury Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The Slovenian striker was forced to leave the pitch during the closing stages of the match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with United having already made all their substitutions. The team finished the epic encounter with ten men after Sesko's unfortunate departure.
Manager Rubén Amorim immediately expressed concern about the nature of the injury. "I'm worried about the injury because it's in the knee," Amorim stated after the match. "We need Ben to be a better team. We have to review everything, we have to review what happened with Ben."
Recovery Timeline and United's Concerns
While the club hasn't set an official return date for their £73.7 million summer signing, sources close to the situation anticipate the 22-year-old could be sidelined for at least three to four weeks.
The injury comes at a particularly challenging time for United, who are about to lose several attacking players to the African Cup of Nations. Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui are all set to depart for the tournament, leaving Amorim with limited options in attack.
Medical staff at Carrington remain cautiously optimistic, noting that Sesko has avoided serious damage to his knee. The young striker has already withdrawn from the Slovenia national team to begin his rehabilitation programme at United's training facility.
Amorim's Attacking Dilemma and Potential Solutions
With Sesko unavailable and multiple attackers departing for international duty, Amorim faces a creative challenge in reshaping his forward line.
Matheus Cunha appears the most likely candidate to fill the void, potentially operating as an unorthodox number nine after starting against Tottenham. Meanwhile, Joshua Zirkzee, who has expressed frustration about his limited role this season, will need to step up significantly.
The situation also increases pressure on Mason Mount to maintain fitness and provide cover during this period of squad depletion.
Sesko's absence is particularly concerning given his status as United's only recognised number nine in the squad. The club allowed Rasmus Hojlund to join Napoli on loan despite the Danish striker wanting to fight for his place, while 17-year-old Chido Obi continues his development with the under-21s.
Since his high-profile move to England, Sesko has faced criticism from pundits including former United captain Gary Neville. The striker has managed two goals and one assist in 11 Premier League appearances this season as he adapts to English football.
