Benjamin Sesko withdrawn from Slovenia squad and misses Nations League opener vs Scotland
Benjamin Sesko missed Slovenia’s UEFA Nations League 2026-27 opening fixture against Scotland at Stadion Stozice on 26 September 2026 after being withdrawn from the squad. The 23-year-old did not feature following the decision to remove him from the roster for the match.
Slovenia, coached by Boštjan Cesar, entered the group-stage meeting aiming to secure three points and to shore up a defence that has been a focal point for the side. The team have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last six matches and have managed only one win in their last five games, while the Fantje have never beaten Scotland in five previous meetings, adding pressure to the hosts.
Sesko was withdrawn from the Slovenia squad for the UEFA Nations League 2026-27 fixtures against Scotland, North Macedonia and Switzerland. He was also left out of Manchester United’s recent Premier League clash with Fulham and is currently 23 years old.
Boštjan Cesar commented on Sesko’s situation: “This isn’t an easy time for Benjamin. 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. The most important thing now is for Sesko to surround himself with people he trusts and believes in, and for everyone around him to remain positive.”
Cesar added: “Because that is what he needs. He needs time. He needs good rehabilitation – and Slovenia needs him too, once he is fully healthy,” Cesar said further.
Cesar stressed match approach for the opener, saying the defence remains the main asset Slovenia should focus on and that his side must establish control from the very first minute. He advised a calm and composed approach as the best way for the hosts to handle the pressure surrounding the fixture.
Sesko is still undergoing tests to determine the severity of the injury, and his withdrawal covers Slovenia’s upcoming Nations League group games against Scotland, North Macedonia and Switzerland.
