Sesko vows swift return after shin concern forces him out of Slovenia squad

Benjamin Sesko has pulled out of the Slovenia squad for the upcoming three-week international break after reporting a shin problem, with Manchester United confirming on Monday that the forward will undergo tests this week before a recovery plan is finalised.

Sesko featured in United’s Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton last Wednesday but was absent from the squad that travelled to Fulham on Saturday. Manager Michael Carrick explained the forward had felt an issue with his shin and would be assessed, and the club later confirmed his international withdrawal, stating: “Benjamin will undergo tests this week before defining his individual recovery plan.”

On Tuesday morning, Sesko addressed the situation directly in a statement posted on Instagram in Slovenian. “I am very sorry that I will have to miss the national team’s upcoming matches,” he wrote. “I have always played for Slovenia — and always will — with heart and pride. Right now, the most important thing is to focus fully on my recovery. I am already working on getting back on the pitch as soon as possible to help both the national team and my club once again.”

The striker added a message of support for his international teammates: “I believe in our guys, and I am certain that this time, too, they will display the team spirit that has always defined us. I can’t wait to wear the national team jersey again; until then, I will be Slovenia’s biggest supporter.”

With Sesko sidelined, Matheus Cunha has stepped into a false nine role for United, while Bryan Mbeumo — who also led the line during pre-season — offers Carrick another option up front.

United’s next fixture is on 19 October, when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, giving Sesko the duration of the international break to recover.