13 Tough Matches Ahead for Manchester United Without Striker After "Czesko"'s Long-Term Injury
On 29 October 2026, Manchester United's schedule was revealed amid their crisis struggle, worsened by the latest bad news: Benjamin Czesko, the Slovenian national team's striker and the only natural center forward in the squad, has suffered a long-term injury.
Recent reports indicate Benjamin Czesko will be sidelined at least until January due to a shin injury caused by a clash. This injury differs from his previous shin inflammation issues.
The 23-year-old striker has not played for Manchester United since the 2-3 home defeat to Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round on 16 September.
As a result, manager Michael Carrick must continue to field the team without a natural center forward through the New Year period, with the team currently in 16th place in the Premier League standings. In the UEFA Champions League group stage, they rank 20th and face a tough battle to reach at least the playoff round by finishing in the top 24.
However, during the at least 13 matches without Benjamin Czesko leading the attack, Manchester United faces several challenging opponents as follows.
31 October 2026 (Premier League) Chelsea vs. Manchester United
3 November 2026 (UEFA Champions League) Manchester United vs. Roma
8 November 2026 (Premier League) Manchester United vs. Aston Villa
22 November 2026 (Premier League) Liverpool vs. Manchester United
25 November 2026 (UEFA Champions League) Sporting Lisbon vs. Manchester United
28 November 2026 (Premier League) Manchester United vs. Brentford
2 December 2026 (Premier League) Newcastle United vs. Manchester United
5 December 2026 (Premier League) Manchester United vs. Coventry City
8 December 2026 (UEFA Champions League) Manchester United vs. RB Leipzig
13 December 2026 (Premier League) Crystal Palace vs. Manchester United
20 December 2026 (Premier League) Arsenal vs. Manchester United
27 December 2026 (Premier League) Manchester United vs. Nottingham Forest
30 December 2026 (Premier League) Manchester United vs. Sunderland