Manchester United have reportedly received a major setback regarding Benjamin Šeško’s injury, with the Slovenian striker expected to remain on the sidelines until at least January 2027. The latest development is a significant blow for Michael Carrick, who is already facing pressure to improve the club’s performances this season.
Šeško has not featured for United since their Carabao Cup defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion on September 16, 2026. The forward had been working to establish himself as a regular starter after a difficult period with injuries, but his latest fitness problem has interrupted his progress.
According to recent reports, the 23-year-old is dealing with a shin injury that requires further rest and careful management. United’s medical team have consulted specialists as they attempt to establish the best approach to help the striker recover fully.
Šeško’s Injury Situation
Šeško’s current injury problem is particularly frustrating because he also struggled with a shin issue towards the end of last season.
The Slovenian international missed the final stages of the previous campaign and was unable to participate in Manchester United’s pre-season preparations. He eventually returned to action after working to regain his fitness, raising hopes that he could make an important contribution during the 2026/27 season.
However, his return proved short-lived. After making several appearances, Šeško experienced further discomfort following the Carabao Cup encounter against Brighton.
United initially confirmed that the striker would undergo additional examinations before a recovery plan could be established. Since then, supporters have been waiting for a clearer indication of when he might return.
Recent reports now suggest that the club expects him to remain unavailable until at least January. There has been no confirmed date for his return to competitive action, and the medical team will need to assess his progress before allowing him to resume playing.
Manchester United Reject Rushing His Recovery
One of the major concerns surrounding Šeško is the possibility of aggravating the injury by returning too early.
Manchester United will want to avoid a situation in which their striker makes another comeback only to suffer a fresh setback. Allowing him sufficient time to recover could therefore be the most sensible decision, even if his absence creates difficulties for Carrick.
Reports indicate that rest is currently preferred over surgery, although his treatment and recovery will continue to depend on medical assessments.
The club must also consider the physical demands of Premier League football. Returning to training is only one stage of the process, as Šeško will need to rebuild his fitness before he can be trusted to play regularly.
United supporters will be hoping that the extended recovery period allows him to return without the discomfort that has affected his progress.
Carrick Faces a Striker Problem
Šeško’s absence creates another selection challenge for Carrick, particularly because the Slovenian is a natural centre-forward who offers physical presence, movement and a potential goal threat inside the penalty area.
Without him, the United manager must find alternative ways to lead the attack. Matheus Cunha could continue to operate in a central role, while Joshua Zirkzee may also be considered depending on his availability and tactical requirements.
The absence of a recognised striker could make it more difficult for United to maintain consistency in front of goal. Carrick will need his attacking players to contribute more while the club’s leading forward remains unavailable.
The injury could also influence United’s January transfer plans. If Šeško is not expected back until the new year, the club may have to assess whether additional attacking options are necessary.
However, no decision to sign another striker should be treated as confirmed without an official announcement.
What Happens Next?
For now, the priority is ensuring that Šeško recovers completely rather than rushing him back for an important fixture.
His progress will be monitored by United’s medical staff, and supporters will be looking for further information from Carrick or the club as January approaches.
Šeško had shown encouraging signs before the latest setback, scoring twice in six appearances during the early stages of the campaign. His return could provide a welcome boost if United can get him back to full fitness.
Nevertheless, the reported January timeframe means the striker could miss several important domestic and European fixtures before the end of 2026.
Conclusion
Benjamin Šeško’s injury is a major concern for Manchester United, with reports indicating that he is expected to remain sidelined until at least January 2027.
Carrick must now find a reliable attacking solution while the club’s medical team focuses on the striker’s recovery. Although the situation is disappointing, giving Šeško enough time to heal could be crucial to preventing further setbacks and helping him return stronger for the second half of the season.
