The magic of the FA Cup! Sessegnon twins gear up to face each other Wigan host Fulham

Steven, although following a slightly different trajectory, was never far behind. A versatile full-back like his twin, he made his senior debut for Fulham in 2017, the same season when Ryan made his name but failed to settle in a Fulham. He continued to contribute whenever called upon but unlike Ryan, who swiftly transitioned to the top flight, Steven’s career saw him play a role in Fulham’s Championship campaigns.

He journeyed around the lower divisions of English football, joining multiple clubs on loan from Fulham. He represented the likes Bristol City, Plymouth Argyle and Charlton Athletic, before joining Wigan Athletic in 2023. Capable of playing on either defensive flanks, Steven has been an integral part of the current Wigan Athletic side that are trying to get themselves back up the ladder of English football.

A Family Affair With a Competitive Edge

While their careers took separate paths, the brothers remain extremely close. However, Saturday’s encounter presents a unique challenge: competing against each other in a professional setting for the first time. The emotions of the occasion are not lost on their family. Their older brothers, Chris, Yannick, and Richie, are expected to be in attendance, but their parents have opted to stay away, overwhelmed by the nerves of watching their sons go head-to-head.

For Steven, the match is particularly significant as it marks a meeting with his former club, adding another layer of emotion to the occasion. His journey at Fulham was deeply intertwined with Ryan’s, and playing against the team where they both honed their craft will be a surreal experience. Despite the sentimental aspect, both players will be focused on the task at hand.

Steven, recovering from a knee injury that has kept him sidelined since early January, is set to be included in Wigan’s squad. His manager, Shaun Maloney, has spoken highly of his dedication in training and understands the personal significance of the match. Ryan, meanwhile, is expected to feature for Fulham after making an impact off the bench in their recent 2-1 win over Newcastle United.

The Magic of the FA Cup stays alive

The FA Cup is one of the oldest cup competitions of English football which offers a chance for every English club to compete for the prestigious trophy. Given the vast reach and history of the tournament, the FA Cup sometimes provides us with memorable, feel good stories that are always remembered by fans. In just the previous round, Everton faced Peterborough United and that provided a similar story to that of the Sessegnon brothers.

The Toffees hosted the League One side and that provided a chance for Everton veteran Ashley Young to face off against his son, Tyler Young, who plays for Peterborough. Even though Tyler was named on the bench and didn’t come on during the game, it still provided a heart warming moment for both father and son to share the stadium on the same night. Something similar is on the cards in this round when Wigan Athletic host Fulham.

🤝 The Battle of the Brothers
🆚 Facing Fulham
🏆 The magic of the Emirates FA Cup
💪 Being ready for the challenge

Steven Sessegnon previews this weekend’s Fourth Round tie. 💭#wafc 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/6kvGn7Kj8b

— Wigan Athletic (@LaticsOfficial) February 6, 2025

Regardless of the outcome, the match will be a special moment for the Sessegnon twins. The duo spent years perfecting their game together, often training in a local cage near their home after school before progressing through Fulham’s academy. Their bond extends beyond football, with Steven often checking in on Ryan and his young daughter whenever they speak.

Steven has acknowledged that while it will be a unique experience, swapping shirts with Ryan after the game isn’t something he plans on doing, since he can just ask for one at any time. From sharing the pitch in their early Fulham days to now facing off in an FA Cup clash, the Sessegnon twins have carved their own stories while maintaining an unbreakable bond.