Sesko Out Until January, United Lose Number Nine

Benjamin Sesko will miss until January, leaving Manchester United without their only orthodox number nine. The 23-year-old was substituted in the 66th minute of the Carabao Cup loss to Brighton on 16 September. Tests confirmed his problem is an impact injury, not shin splints, keeping him out of pre-season. Since joining United from RB Leipzig for £73.7m in August 2025, he has 38 appearances, 14 goals and one assist. Last season he was a joint-top scorer with 11 league goals, sharing the spot with Bryan Mbeumo. He scored twice this term, against Everton in the Premier League and Sabah FK in the Champions League. His injury forces United to miss key fixtures against Liverpool, Arsenal and at least three Champions League games. United sit 16th with one league win since 30 August and have gone winless in all competitions since 10 September. After a 4-1 loss to Como, Bruno Fernandes criticised Carrick's tactics, but both reportedly held clear-the-air talks. Carrick will take charge against Chelsea on Saturday at 12:30 GMT, as United consider the January transfer window.