Joshua Zirkzee handed fresh Manchester United lifeline after Benjamin Sesko injury setback

Joshua Zirkzee could be handed a fresh opportunity to revive his Manchester United career after Benjamin Sesko suffered another injury setback, raising fresh questions over the club’s attacking options.

The Dutch forward has endured a difficult spell at Old Trafford and has been linked with an exit for much of the past year. However, United’s reluctance to sanction his departure, coupled with Sesko’s uncertain fitness, could give him another chance to establish himself under Michael Carrick.

Zirkzee has yet to start a Premier League game this season but has featured in United’s last three matches. Sources suggest Carrick retains faith in the forward and is reluctant to lose him midway through the campaign, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the availability of established attacking options.

Sesko injury opens door for Zirkzee

Sesko’s latest setback has complicated United’s plans in attack after the Slovenia international showed encouraging signs of improvement before the international break.

The striker withdrew from international duty, with the full extent of his injury still unclear. There are suggestions the problem could be connected to an earlier issue that previously kept him out of action.

United are adopting a cautious approach to his recovery, leaving Carrick with fewer established options through the middle as the club assesses its next steps.

Bryan Mbeumo led the attack at the weekend, while Zirkzee came off the bench to play 31 minutes against Tottenham.

The Dutchman was among United’s better performers during his time on the pitch, offering a timely reminder of the qualities he could bring if given a more consistent run in the team.

His contribution could strengthen his case for greater involvement, especially if Sesko’s absence extends beyond the immediate fixtures.

United rejected deadline-day exit

Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford has remained uncertain, with Fiorentina and Everton both attempting to secure his signature on deadline day.

United ultimately saw little benefit in allowing him to leave, and their position could become even more significant following Sesko’s injury setback.

The forward is understood to remain committed to turning his situation around and continues to work hard to convince the coaching staff that he deserves a bigger role.

However, interest from Italy remains a potential threat to his long-term future. Napoli and AC Milan have both been linked with the former Bologna striker, and their interest could resurface if United decide he no longer fits into their plans.

For now, the club faces a balancing act between maintaining sufficient attacking depth and deciding whether Zirkzee can become a more reliable option.

January transfer plans could decide his future

United are also considering whether to recruit another forward when the transfer window reopens in January.

Signing a new striker could push Zirkzee further down the pecking order and increase the likelihood of an exit. Conversely, the club’s assessment of its existing options could persuade the hierarchy to retain him rather than risk weakening the squad.

Sesko’s recovery will therefore be an important factor in shaping United’s transfer strategy, particularly if the club needs additional cover in attack.

Carrick’s own position could also influence the situation. United have collected just six points from their opening six games under the manager, while the performance against Tottenham did little to ease scrutiny