Steven and his brother Ryan Sessegnon stepped onto the pitch at Craven Cottage together last month, each cradling a daughter in his arms. The twins, who rose through Fulham’s youth system side‑by‑side and have shared a handful of first‑team appearances, faced each other for the very first time that evening – a moment that felt like a full circle for the family. In previous seasons, such a fixture would have been an ideal excuse for a family reunion. Steven had spent three years in Manchester, plying his trade for Wigan Athletic, while Ryan continued his career elsewhere.
Now, however, Steven is back not just in south‑west London but truly back where his footballing roots lie. He smiles as he speaks to Sky Sports on a terrace at the Dons’ training base in New Malden. “We used to play academy games literally across this grass,” he says, gesturing toward the left.
“I went to Coombe Boys School, which is only five minutes up the road.” Just a short drive away sits Fulham’s Motspur Park complex, where his nephew Kayden is currently a member of the under‑18 squad. “It feels incredibly wholesome to be back,” Steven remarks. “Being surrounded by family makes a huge difference.
I get to see my older brothers, my nieces and nephews, and I still catch up with Ryan a few times a week.” He adds that, although they now compete at different levels, their conversations revolve around life as fathers, providers, and men shaping the future of their families. Steven’s homecoming arrives at a pivotal juncture in his professional journey.
In his debut season with Wigan in 2023‑24 he featured in 29 matches across all competitions. The following year was marred by calf and knee problems, and he did not feature after 4 January 2025.
At the start of his third campaign, new manager Gary Caldwell – who had replaced Ryan Lowe in February 2025 – placed him on the transfer list. “Things move quickly in football,” Steven explains. “When I was told I was on the transfer list I was told I wouldn’t play, so I missed the pre‑season trip.
Yet I ended up starting the first game of the season because of injuries and lack of options, and I thought I performed well.” He acknowledges that managerial changes can alter a player’s trajectory, but he remains pragmatic: “If everyone can walk away happy and find a club where they can thrive, there’s no problem.” A permanent move never materialised, and when Caldwell did give Steven a chance, it was in an unfamiliar role at centre‑back – a position he had never occupied before. “It was very, very tough,” he admits.
“I felt I could contribute, but I didn’t have the confidence of the manager behind me.” Still, he views the experience as a learning curve. “The biggest lesson was professionalism. Even when I wasn’t selected, I had to carry myself and be the best version of myself. I wanted to prove I was still a good trainer and a good player, and that mindset probably kept me at the club longer than they expected.” When Wigan released him in the summer, Steven received a call that would change his direction.
“I was about to go on holiday with my family when they rang. As soon as they said Wimbledon, a local club, I said ‘let’s sort it out’,” he recalls. The appeal was not just geographical; it was also about the role the new manager Johnnie Jackson envisioned for him.
“It was straightforward – I knew I could get minutes and showcase my ability.” Steven signed a two‑year deal with AFC Wimbledon on 25 June, with an option for an additional twelve months. His first appearance for the Dons came on 8 August in the Carabao Cup against Newport, roughly six months after his last competitive outing for Wigan.
He describes the feeling as “genuine disbelief.” His league debut arrived on 7 September, a 2‑0 victory over Bromley in Sky Bet League One. Although he has had to be patient, he understands the reasoning behind his gradual integration.
“Injuries create a bit of anxiety about getting back, but the pre‑season and the club have looked after me well. The manager communicates clearly, and that helps.” Steven notes that his initial role has been as a substitute, which he believes has actually benefited his return to match fitness.
“Coming off the bench a few times has helped me get my bearings again,” he says. “It’s probably the simplest football I’ve played in my career, but it’s also the most effective. We create chances, I get the ball high up the pitch, and the game isn’t over‑thought.
That simplicity brings out the best in the squad and in me.” AFC Wimbledon’s defensive solidity has been evident, with five clean sheets in seven games – the joint‑best record in the Sky Bet EFL. They sit four points behind leaders Bradford City heading into the Saturday trip to Cambridge, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports+.
Despite having only scored five goals so far, the Dons remain among the bookmakers’ favourites for relegation, a paradox that underscores the competitive nature of League One. Now, back on familiar soil, Steven Sessegnon has the opportunity to help Wimbledon defy the odds once more, playing just a stone’s throw from where his footballing story began. His journey illustrates the resilience required to navigate setbacks, the importance of family support, and the value of seizing new chances when they arise. As the season progresses, fans will be watching to see how his experience and renewed confidence influence the Dons’ campaign and whether he can help steer the club away from the relegation battle.
Watch Cambridge vs AFC Wimbledon live on Sky Sports+ this Saturday, kick‑off at 3 pm. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million – entry is free.