Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed a significant squad setback, revealing that striker Benjamin Sesko will be sidelined for several weeks due to a knee injury.
Sesko's Injury Blow and Recovery Timeline
The 22-year-old forward sustained the problem after coming on as a substitute in United's 2-2 draw with Tottenham before the international break. While the injury isn't considered serious, the club is taking a cautious approach to his recovery.
"He's going to stay a few weeks out. I don't know how long, but he's not that serious," Amorim stated ahead of United's Monday night fixture against Everton. "We have to be careful with him. He's going to recover, he's feeling better. So in a few weeks, I expect to have Ben."
African Cup of Nations Departures Loom
The timing presents an additional challenge for Amorim, with key attacking players Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo set to join their national teams for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The tournament begins in Morocco on 21 December.
Amorim expressed hope that Sesko could return before losing these crucial squad members. "I don't want to say for sure, but when they are going to the Afcon, I expect to have Ben back," the Portuguese manager said.
Regarding the mandatory release of players, Amorim acknowledged the regulations while indicating the club would seek to protect its interests. "We are doing our job to try to maintain the players a little bit longer, but it's not just in our hands. We need to respect that, but we'll try to do everything to protect the club, protect the players and protect the national team."
Additional Squad Concerns
The injury news extends beyond Sesko. Defender Harry Maguire has been ruled out of the Everton match with a hamstring strain picked up against Spurs.
Young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo faces a late fitness test on a minor knock, while Lisandro Martínez continues his recovery from a long-term knee injury.
Amorim also addressed potential tactical flexibility, suggesting Martínez could feature in defensive midfield upon his return "in an emergency" and confirming his belief that Luke Shaw can operate effectively as a left wing-back.
