Injury Concerns for Manchester United’s Benjamin Sesko

LONDON — Ruben Amorim has raised concerns regarding Benjamin Sesko’s knee injury, which he sustained during Manchester United’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur. The £74 million ($97 million) centre-forward limped off the pitch late in the match after a challenge from Spurs defender Micky van de Ven.

Sesko, who was substituted in during the 58th minute, left the field in the 88th minute. While he was able to walk off after receiving treatment, Amorim expressed worry about the severity of the injury.

“We need to evaluate the situation,” Amorim informed reporters. “He has an issue with his knee, and we are concerned about it. We believe there is a problem.”

When probed about the possibility of a prolonged absence for Sesko, Amorim could not provide an optimistic outlook. “It’s the knee, and we can never be certain about these situations,” he stated. “Right now, my primary concern is the injury rather than his form, as we are uncertain about its seriousness.”

In addition to Sesko’s situation, Manchester United is set to lose forwards Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo for the Africa Cup of Nations, which adds to the urgency for squad depth. Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui will also participate in the tournament. Given these circumstances, Amorim acknowledged that the club may need to reinforce the squad in January if Sesko’s injury proves significant.

“We need to assess everything regarding Ben, but we are already aware that we would face challenges with the AFCON players,” Amorim continued. “We must manage this situation carefully as we approach the transfer window to see if we can bolster the team and address any gaps. We must seize the opportunity to improve.”

Despite the injury concerns, Manchester United remains in the hunt for Champions League qualification, having extended their unbeaten streak in the Premier League to five games. However, Amorim noted that the team has drawn their last two away matches, salvaging points late on against both Spurs and Nottingham Forest.

Amorim emphasized that United had the potential to secure a win against Spurs but fell short due to a lack of aggression. “We are still in the early stages of our improvement, but we should have performed better and shown more bravery,” he remarked.

“The three points were within reach. We maintained good control of the game, yet we need to elevate our performance. When winning is not feasible, we must at least avoid losing. We have much room for growth as a team, and today was an opportunity we failed to capitalize on.

“We need to reflect on our performance. Our pressing lacked intensity, and we were too comfortable. If we had demonstrated greater bravery, we could have secured the win.”