Slovenia manager unhappy with Manchester United over Benjamin Sesko injury details

Manchester United’s new signing Benjamin Sesko has been establishing himself as the club’s first-choice striker to lead the attacking line after arriving from RB Leipzig for around £73 million in the summer, scoring against Brentford and Sunderland. However, the Sunderland win was the last time the striker scored, before a six-game run without a goal.

During October’s international break, Slovenia drew 0-0 with Kosovo and Switzerland, and since returning, Sesko has one assist, setting up Bryan Mbeumo in the 4-2 win over Brighton.

In Manchester United’s recent clash with Tottenham Hotspur however, Sesko came on in the 58th minute for Noussair Mazraoui and later twisted his knee in a clash, immediately signalling to the bench that he was facing an issue. It’s understood the striker is due to undergo scans at Carrington, with Manchester United expected to provide an update on the injury later today.

Already his Slovenia strike partner Andraz Sporar has commented that it’s unlikely that Sesko will be joining them for international duty this month, however no official communication to say so has seemingly been received.

Now Chris Wheeler has reported that Slovenia head coach Matjaz Kek has addressed the situation and expressed frustration at the lack of formal information from the club. Speaking about Sesko’s availability, Kek said: “With all due respect to a great club like Man Utd, we have officially not received anything yet; no papers, no documents. We want our medical team to take a look at it. Our doctor is an expert in this field, we don’t have just anyone in this position.”

He continued: “I cannot comment, of course, I have certain information, and I am also in contact with Beni. I can’t say anything because officially we don’t know anything at all, United hasn’t contacted anyone from our camp.”

Kek also underlined that player welfare remains the priority as the national team prepare for this month’s fixtures. Speaking about Sesko’s well-being, Kek said: “Of course, I am concerned about the player; the only thing that matters to me is his wellbeing. We are prepared to do everything for that, and we have never sent anyone onto the field if there was the slightest risk.”

He continued: “However, the national team is something very special, and I expect maximum respect from everyone. Slovenia deserves that, even if on the other side there is a powerhouse like England, and something as extraordinary as the Premier League.”

For Slovenia, the plan is to finalise their squad once Manchester United confirm Sesko’s status following the scans. Slovenia are scheduled to face Kosovo and Sweden this month and will adjust based on the medical guidance received.

For Manchester United, the focus is on the timeline for Sesko’s return amid a busy winter programme and squad availability concerns with the Africa Cup of Nations just around the corner.