- Benjamin Sesko scored in Manchester United’s 2-1 win versus Brentford
- Slovenian was interviewed after the game
- Striker has scored double figures in debut season
The way that Benjamin Sesko took on his goal in Manchester United‘s 2-1 win against Brentford showed off a confident, young player in front of goal.
The Slovenian international appears worlds apart from the hesitant figure who first arrived at Old Trafford. Early in his tenure under Ruben Amorim, Sesko seemed burdened by the price tag and the tactical shifts, often looking void of the confidence required to lead the line.
Fans are quickly falling for the striker’s relentless work ethic, his approach to the game, and a burgeoning goal-scoring record that suggests United have finally found their long-term “number nine.”.
Sesko Growing with Confidence
Speaking after the game last night, Sesko said: “10 goals in the Premier League for a first season? That’s fantastic! I’m improving from match to match. It’s great to score for my teammates, for this club. It’s a great pleasure. I’m happy to be here and to be able to help.”
His tenth goal of the season was taken in a calculative fashion, as he shimmied a defender before slotting it home. The assist was laid off by none other than Bruno Fernandes. Perhaps earlier in the season, he would have rushed to take the shot on too early. However, a more seasoned approach in front of the home crowd is telling of his growing confidence in front of goal.
Double digits is a solid foundation to build from in his debut season at the Theatre of Dreams. The Slovenian is known to be obsessed with self-development. From hyperbaric chamber sessions with Diogo Dalot to NFL-style drills, his initiative to be better knows no bounds. The responsibility that he carries to become a better version of himself does not feel like a burden. Rather, a requirement from himself to deliver for the Old Trafford crowd.
Controlled Gametime under Carrick Pays Off
The win against the Bees was Sesko’s third start in a row. For much of his time under Michael Carrick, he has started the game from the bench. The 22 year-old has competed with Bryan Mbuemo for the role. However, the Cameroonian has gone off the boil since his return from AFCON. If there are funds to do so, Sesko could have some actual competition from a second striker in 2026/27.
The bench is not a place where a strike of his calibre wants to start, but his mature approach in taking his chances have been rewarded with more starts. From there, he has built confidence and patience in being the main man. Despite a blank in his last three fixtures before Brentford, Carrick has shown faith in his game-changing abilities to keep him on the pitch. Against Keith Andrews’ side, it paid off very well.
If Sesko continues at this trajectory, 10 goals will be viewed as the baseline for what he can achieve at Manchester United. For the time being, his efforts will be compared to those of Rasmus Hojlund. So far, he has exceeded the man he has replaced as the present and future number nine at this club.
