Steven and Ryan Sessegnon made a memorable appearance together at Craven Cottage last month, each cradling their own daughter as they walked out side by side. The brothers, who grew up in Fulham's academy and shared a handful of first‑team outings, faced each other on the pitch for the first time that evening – a moment that felt like a full‑circle reunion.
In previous seasons, a fixture like this would have been an ideal family gathering, especially since Steven had spent three years in Manchester playing for Wigan Athletic. Now, however, he is truly back in his native south‑west London, not just geographically but emotionally as well. Speaking to Sky Sports from a terrace at the Dons' training complex in New Malden, Steven pointed out the familiar surroundings. "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.
He also mentioned Fulham’s Motspur Park facility, a six‑minute drive from his new home, where his nephew Kayden is currently a member of the U‑18 squad. "It feels really wholesome to be back," Steven added. "Being around family helps a lot.
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 much to compare on the pitch, but we catch up on life, fatherhood, responsibility, and what the future holds for us as men in our families." His return to London comes at a pivotal juncture in his career. After a debut season with Wigan in 2023/24 in which he featured in 29 matches across all competitions, injuries plagued his second year, sidelining him from January 4 2025 onward.
When Gary Caldwell took over from Ryan Lowe in February 2025, the new manager placed Steven on the transfer list. "Things move quickly in football," Steven reflected.
"When I was put on the list I was told I wouldn’t play, so I missed the pre‑season trip. Yet I ended up starting the first league game because of injuries and lack of options, and I thought I performed well. It’s part of the business. The club wanted a new direction, and as long as everyone can leave happy and find a place where they can thrive, 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 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 quality trainer and player, and that attitude probably kept me at the club longer than they intended." Wigan released him in the summer, and on June 25 he signed a two‑year deal with AFC Wimbledon, with an option for a further twelve months. "I was about to go on holiday with my family when I got the call.
As soon as they said Wimbledon – local – I said ‘let’s sort it’," he recalled. "The role the manager Johnnie Jackson outlined was clear.
I knew I could get minutes and showcase my ability." 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 expressed genuine disbelief at how quickly he was back in action. His league debut followed on September 7, when Wimbledon earned a 2‑0 victory over Bromley in Sky Bet League One.
He has had to be patient, but he understands the reasoning. "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 has given me the support I need," Steven said.
"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 pace of the game." He described Wimbledon’s style as the simplest yet most effective football he has ever played. "We create chances, I get the ball high up the pitch, and it isn’t over‑thought. That simplicity brings out the best in the squad and in me.
I’ve enjoyed it so far and it relieves pressure on the team – we know we can generate opportunities, we just need to stay solid." Wimbledon’s defensive record backs his words: five clean sheets in seven matches, the joint‑best in the Sky Bet EFL. They sit four points behind leaders Bradford ahead of the Saturday trip to Cambridge, a game that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports+. Despite scoring only five goals, the Dons remain among the bookmakers’ favourites for relegation this season, making Steven’s contribution all the more crucial. Now, firmly rooted on home soil, Steven Sessegnon has the platform to help AFC Wimbledon defy expectations once again, just a stone’s throw from where his football journey began.
The twin brothers continue to carve distinct paths, yet their shared dedication to family, professionalism, and the beautiful game unites them. Watch Cambridge vs AFC Wimbledon live on Sky Sports+ this Saturday, kick‑off 3 pm.