Michael Carrick has suggested Benjamin Sesko is closing in on his first Manchester United start of the season ahead of Thursday’s Champions League clash with Sabah.
Sesko has been eased back into action following the shin problem which ended his 2025/26 campaign early.
However, the striker strengthened his case at Everton on Sunday.
Sesko came off the bench and headed United into a late 2-1 lead before Ainsley Maitland-Niles rescued a point for Everton in stoppage time. ReadManUtd’s Everton match report
Now Carrick has delivered an encouraging update before United return to Champions League action.
🚨🗣️ Michael Carrick: “Benjamin Sesko scored a fantastic goal, he contributed GREATLY to the team last season.
“We had to MANAGE him to get him back in form after missing a lot of matches.” #MUFC pic.twitter.com/GoIpJLiUAc
— UtdTruthful (@Utdtruthful) September 9, 2026
Carrick says Benjamin Sesko is close to Man Utd start
Asked whether Sesko could start against Sabah or Manchester City, Carrick said “Ben’s close”.
The United boss explained that Sesko has now completed more than three weeks of full training without restrictions following his lengthy absence.
That puts the 23-year-old firmly in contention against Sabah.
ReadManUtd’s predicted Manchester United XI against Sabah already has Sesko leading the line as Carrick considers changes before Sunday’s Manchester derby.
Former United striker Teddy Sheringham has also called for Sesko to receive more opportunities from the start after praising the qualities he gives Carrick’s attack. Sheringham’s verdict on Sesko
Carrick still has to manage the striker carefully.
But scoring at Everton and completing several weeks of unrestricted training represent major steps forward.
Sabah could now provide the perfect opportunity for Sesko to take the next one.
United kick off against the Azerbaijani champions at 8pm BST, with supporters able to find full broadcast information in ReadManUtd’s Man Utd vs Sabah TV and live stream guide.
Paul Scholes Makes Bold Verdict on Fernandes After Man Utd Links
Paul Scholes Makes Bold Verdict on Fernandes After Man Utd Links
Man Utd injury news: Carrick provides de Ligt and Luke Shaw updates
Man Utd injury news: Carrick provides de Ligt and Luke Shaw updates