Steven and his brother Ryan Sessegnon made a memorable exit at Craven Cottage last month, each cradling their daughters as they walked off the pitch together. The twins, who grew up side‑by‑side in Fulham's academy and shared a handful of first‑team appearances, faced each other on the field for the very first time that evening – a moment that felt like a full‑circle reunion.
In previous seasons, such a fixture would have been a perfect excuse for a family get‑together, especially since Steven had spent three years in Manchester playing for Wigan Athletic. This time, however, he was truly back where his roots lie – not merely in south‑west London, but back in the community that shaped him. While speaking to Sky Sports on a terrace at the Dons' training complex in New Malden, Steven pointed out the familiar grass where he once played academy matches. "We used to play academy games literally across this grass," he recalled, gesturing to the left.
He added that he attended Coombe Boys School, a short five‑minute walk from the ground, and that Fulham’s Motspur Park training centre is only six minutes away by car. His nephew Kayden now features in Fulham’s U‑18 squad, adding another layer of family connection. "It’s really wholesome to be back," Steven said, smiling.
"Being around family helps massively. I get to see my older brothers, my nieces, my nephews, and I see Ryan a few times a week. We play at different levels, so there isn’t a lot of on‑field rivalry, but we catch up about life, fatherhood, providing for our families, and what the future holds." Steven’s homecoming arrives at a pivotal juncture in his professional life.
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 play again after January 4, 2025. When Gary Caldwell took over from Ryan Lowe in February 2025, he promptly placed Steven on the transfer list.
"Things happen fast in football," Steven reflected. "When I was put on the transfer list, I was told I wouldn’t play and I missed the pre‑season trip. Yet I ended up starting the first game of the season because of injuries and a lack of options, and I thought I performed well.
It’s part of the game. The manager wanted a different direction, and as long as everyone can move on to clubs where they can succeed, there’s no problem." A permanent move never materialised, and when Caldwell did give him a chance, Steven was deployed at centre‑back – a position he had never occupied before. "It was very, very tough," he admitted. "I felt I could contribute, but I didn’t have the trust or belief behind me.
I was still given a chance to play, but it never clicked. The biggest lesson was professionalism. Even when I wasn’t selected, I had to carry myself and be the best version of myself. I felt I owed it to myself to prove I was still a good trainer and a good player, and that mindset probably kept me at the club longer than they intended." After being released by the Latics in the summer, Steven signed a two‑year deal with AFC Wimbledon on June 25, with an option for an additional 12 months.
He recalled the moment of the call: "I was about to go on holiday with my family when they rang. As soon as they said Wimbledon, local, I said ‘let’s get it sorted.’" The decision also hinged on the role the new manager, Johnnie Jackson, envisioned for him. "It wasn’t complicated – I knew I could come in, get minutes, and show what I can do," Steven said.
Steven’s first appearance for the Dons came on August 8 in the Carabao Cup against Newport, roughly six months after his last competitive outing for Wigan. He still seemed slightly in disbelief when he reflected on that return. His league debut followed on September 7, a 2‑0 victory over Bromley in Sky Bet League One. Though he has had to be patient, he understands the rationale behind the gradual integration.
"It’s like coming back from injuries – there’s a bit of anxiety, but Wimbledon looked after me well in pre‑season and throughout. The manager communicates clearly, and I appreciate that," he explained.
"I wanted to start and play as many games as possible, but coming off the bench a few times has actually helped me reacquaint myself with the rhythm of football." He described the style of play at Wimbledon as "the simplest football I've played in my career, but the most effective." The team focuses on quick transitions, creating chances, and allowing him to receive the ball high up the pitch. "It’s not over‑thought, and it brings the best out of the whole squad and definitely myself. I’ve enjoyed it so far and it takes the pressure off the team; we know we can create chances, we just have to be solid." Wimbledon’s defensive solidity is evident – five clean sheets in seven games, the joint‑most 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 that will be streamed live on Sky Sports+.
Despite having scored only five goals, the Dons remain among the bookmakers’ favourites for relegation, a paradox that underscores the unpredictable nature of the league. Now, back on familiar ground, Steven Sessegnon has a genuine opportunity to help AFC Wimbledon defy the odds once more, playing just a stone’s throw from where his football journey began. His story is one of resilience, family ties, and the determination to rebuild a career that once seemed to be drifting away. As he continues to adapt to his new role and contribute to a solid defensive unit, the twin brothers – Steven and Ryan – remain linked by blood, ambition, and the shared love of the beautiful game.
Watch Cambridge United versus AFC Wimbledon live on Sky Sports+ this Saturday at 3 p.m., and follow Steven’s progress as he strives to make his mark in the club that feels like home.