Steven and his twin brother Ryan Sessegnon stepped onto the pitch at Craven Cottage last month, each cradling a daughter, and made history by facing each other for the first time in a professional match. The moment felt like a full circle for the pair, who had risen through Fulham's academy side by side and shared a handful of first‑team appearances early in their careers.

While previous seasons might have offered a simple family reunion – Steven was based in Manchester playing for Wigan – this encounter marked his genuine return to his roots in south‑west London. Speaking to Sky Sports from a terrace at AFC Wimbledon’s New Malden training ground, the 27‑year‑old pointed out familiar landmarks that reminded him of his childhood. "We used to play academy games literally across this grass," he said, gesturing to the left where Coombe Boys School sits just five minutes away. The former Fulham youngster also mentioned Motspur Park, a six‑minute drive from his current home, where his nephew Kayden now trains with the U‑18 squad.

"It’s really wholesome to be back," Steven added, emphasizing how comforting it is to be surrounded by family – older brothers, nieces, nephews, and frequent visits from Ryan. The brothers now compete at different levels, so there’s little direct rivalry on the pitch, but they keep up with each other’s lives as fathers, providers and men who are shaping the next generation. Steven’s return to London comes at a pivotal juncture in his own career. After a promising debut season with Wigan in 2023/24 – 29 appearances across all competitions – his second year was marred by calf and knee injuries that kept him out of action after early January 2025.

The following summer, under new manager Gary Caldwell, he was placed on the transfer list and told he would not feature in the pre‑season tour. "Things happen fast in football," Steven reflected. "When I was put on the transfer list I thought my season was over, but an injury crisis gave me a chance to start the first game.

I did well, but the club wanted to go in a different direction." Despite the setback, Caldwell gave him occasional opportunities, often deploying him at centre‑back – a position Steven had never played professionally. "It was very tough," he admitted.

"I felt I could contribute, but I didn’t have the trust of the manager in my natural role. It was a learning curve, especially about professionalism. Even when I wasn’t selected, I had to carry myself and stay ready." After being released by Wigan in the summer, Steven received a call that would change his trajectory.

"I was about to go on holiday with my family when Wimbledon rang. The club was local, so I said ‘let’s get it sorted’," he recalled.

The offer included a two‑year deal with an optional extra year, and a clear role outlined by manager Johnnie Jackson. "I knew I could get minutes and prove myself," Steven said.

His first appearance for the Dons came on 8 August in the Carabao Cup against Newport, nearly six months after his last competitive match for Wigan. The experience felt surreal, and he expressed genuine disbelief at how quickly he was back in action.

His league debut followed on 7 September, a 2‑0 victory over Bromley in Sky Bet League One. Although he has mostly come off the bench, Steven appreciates the gradual reintegration.

"It’s like recovering from injury – there’s anxiety, but the pre‑season and the staff at Wimbledon have looked after me exceptionally well. The manager communicates clearly, and those substitute appearances have helped me regain match sharpness." Steven describes Wimbledon’s style of play as the "simplest football" he has ever played, yet also the most effective.

The team focuses on quick transitions, creating chances, and allowing players to get the ball high up the pitch without over‑thinking. "It brings the best out of the squad and me.

It reduces pressure because we know we can create opportunities if we stay solid defensively," he explained. Wimbledon’s defensive record backs up his words: five clean sheets in seven games, the joint‑best in the Sky Bet EFL at the time of writing. They sit four points behind leaders Bradford United heading into the Saturday trip to Cambridge, a match broadcast on Sky Sports+. Despite scoring only five goals, the Dons have remained competitive, though bookmakers still list them among the clubs most likely to face relegation this season.

Now firmly back on familiar soil, Steven Sessegnon hopes to help AFC Wimbledon defy expectations and climb the table, all while staying close to the community where his football journey began. His story illustrates the resilience required to bounce back from injury, the importance of family support, and the value of finding a club that offers both opportunity and a sense of belonging.

As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see if the twin who once shared academy pitches with his brother can now lead Wimbledon to a surprise promotion campaign.