Manchester United arranged a behind-closed-doors friendly against Lausanne-Sport this week to keep players at Carrington fit and sharp.
However, neither Amad Diallo nor Benjamin Sesko were involved, while Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford watched on from the sidelines, which may prompt injury concerns amongst supporters.
Who missed out in Friday’s friendly?
Mainoo and Rashford were both called up to represent England over the break but withdrew from the squad after sustaining knocks last time out against Fulham.
Marcus Rashford & Kobbie Mainoo 🏴 🤩 pic.twitter.com/aJGVJkLx4o
— utdreport (@utdreport) August 10, 2026
Fans can expect further clarification on the pair’s fitness when Michael Carrick does his pre-match press conference towards the end of next week, with United back in action on Saturday, October 10 against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford.
Reports over the last fortnight have suggested Amad is closing in on his return to the fold, having been ruled out since he suffered an ankle injury in pre-season.
Made by Amad, finished by Bryan 💫 pic.twitter.com/hoYz6iyXk3
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 9, 2026
The attacker is said to have been taking part in full first-team training. However, it remains to be seen why he did not get a run out yesterday, especially when considering Carlos Baleba, who’s also yet to feature this term competitively, did.
United waiting on Amad and Sesko to return
As for Sesko, he was sidelined for the trip to Craven Cottage with a re-aggravation of his shin problem.
Michael Carrick explains why Benjamin Sesko isn't in the Manchester United squad to face Fulham and gives an update on Carlos Baleba 🔊 pic.twitter.com/xqiaqCmd0h
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 20, 2026
Despite bizarrely coming under fire from ex-Reds for his absence, both United and Slovenia are concerned over his condition.
The 23-year-old missed out on representing his nation in their Nations League fixtures, and head coach Bostjan Cesar spoke out to address Sesko’s absence.
“This isn’t an easy time for Benjamin,” the manager began, as relayed by journalist Steven Railston.
“He is going through a difficult period in his career, as we know he hasn’t suffered many injuries in the past. It is an atypical injury that requires time to heal.”
Prior to his layoff, the centre-forward had returned two goals in his six appearances in all competitions across 2026/2027.
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