Manchester United are reportedly concerned that Benjamin Sesko could be sidelined until the beginning of next year after suffering a setback in his recovery, creating another challenge for head coach Michael Carrick. According to a report published by The Sun on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, uncertainty surrounding the striker’s condition has raised fears that his absence could be considerably longer than initially anticipated.

The 23-year-old Slovenian international has already missed five weeks because of a separate injury, following an earlier shin problem that reportedly affected him for around six months. His latest setback has further interrupted his development since arriving at Old Trafford.

Sesko has undergone extensive medical assessments at United’s Carrington training complex as the club attempts to establish the seriousness of the problem. Sources cited in the report suggest United fear he could be unavailable for as long as four months.

Nevertheless, people close to the striker reportedly remain hopeful that his recovery will not extend into February. Despite their optimism, they are preparing for the possibility that he could spend a prolonged period away from competitive action.

Sesko’s potential absence could force United to reconsider their transfer plans ahead of the January window. The club did not sign another recognised centre-forward during the previous summer because they struggled to find a buyer for Joshua Zirkzee, leaving Carrick with limited alternatives in that position.

Everton reportedly made a late approach for Zirkzee on transfer deadline day, but United turned down the enquiry while focusing on maintaining their squad numbers. The Dutch forward has struggled to establish himself under Carrick, recording just one start in 27 appearances.

United have already experimented with different attacking options this season. Matheus Cunha initially operated as the central striker before Bryan Mbeumo took over the role. Mbeumo has scored four goals, placing him among the club’s joint-leading scorers.

The Cameroon international could provide another solution during Sesko’s absence, having scored five goals while playing centrally under Carrick last season.

United have invested heavily in their forward line in recent years, spending a combined £108.5 million on Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund across consecutive summer transfer windows before reportedly paying £73.62 million to sign Sesko last year. Hojlund’s loan move to Napoli is expected to become permanent for £38 million, while United could explore selling Zirkzee next year.

Carrick has indicated that the club hopes to clarify Sesko’s condition soon, potentially providing an update around Sunday’s Premier League encounter with Bournemouth.

“We’re hoping really soon that we’ll have a clear picture,” Carrick said on Tuesday, explaining that further medical assessments were underway.

“There’s a bit of work going on at the moment, so we’ll see what comes out of that,” he added.

Sesko scored 12 goals during his debut campaign at Old Trafford and contributed to United securing 14 Premier League points. An extended absence would therefore leave Carrick facing difficult decisions as he attempts to maintain the team’s attacking threat.