Carrick’s Cautious Outlook on Benjamin Šeško’s Shin Woes

Manchester United’s coaching staff, led by former midfielder‑turned‑manager Michael Carrick, are still trying to piece together what’s happening with Slovenian forward Benjamin Šeško. The 23‑year‑old pulled out of Slovenia’s squad late last month after a niggling shin issue forced him out of the club’s 1‑1 draw with Fulham.

It’s not the first time the young striker has been haunted by a shin problem. Back in May, a similar complaint cut short his 2025‑26 season and kept him out of preseason, meaning he spent the early part of the campaign warming the bench rather than starting matches. Carrick said the new setback feels “eerily similar” but is not an exact repeat.

“It’s a similar area, but it’s not the exact same thing again,” Carrick explained, his tone mixed with concern and a hint of frustration. “We’re still working through it, trying to gauge how long it will linger. We’re hoping it’s short‑term, but at the moment it’s still not quite clear.”

The club’s medical team is proceeding with caution, wary that the latest flare‑up could be a sign of something more chronic. Carrick stressed that Šeško seemed to have recovered well after the May injury, only to see “things get thrown up” again – a reminder that the body sometimes reacts in unexpected ways.

For United, the timing is inconvenient. Šeško has yet to make a Premier League start this season, with Brazil international Matheus Cunha holding the striker’s spot. If the Slovenian’s absence drags on, the manager’s depth chart gets seriously thin.

Joshua Zirkzee, the Dutch forward who was tipped to leave Old Trafford in the summer, has now been thrust into the role of primary backup. He’s only managed nine goals in 79 appearances for United, and rumors persist that a January move could still be on the table if a suitable offer arrives.

Right‑winger Bryan Mbeumo, who has been deployed out wide all season, can slot into a central role if needed, but his experience there is limited. Meanwhile, Amad Diallo, who has just resumed light training after his own injury lay‑off, isn’t yet a reliable option.

In short, Carrick’s hands are tied. The club must keep Šeško under close observation, hope for a swift resolution, and meanwhile rely on a makeshift attacking line‑up that may never fully satisfy United’s ambitions.