Benjamin Sesko’s first start for Manchester United came in the Carabao Cup, as he continues to work his way into regular action at the club.
He had been used off the bench in United’s opening two Premier League matches, before being given a chance to start in the cup against Ipswich Town.
The match finished 2-2 after extra time and went to penalties, with Sesko converting his attempt despite being one of the last up in a long shootout that United eventually lost.
While Ruben Amorim’s poor results were making headlines back in Portugal, Benjamin Sesko’s display was drawing plenty of attention in Slovenia.
“Benjamin Sesko needs time, but he doesn’t have it anymore since yesterday! The countdown of minutes played without a goal has begun,” Football Mania wrote.
24.ur raised the ultimate question: “Sesko and Manchester United: did the Slovenian make the wrong decision?”
The article noted that while it’s too early to say whether joining United was a mistake, life might have been easier at Newcastle, who also had just one point from their opening two league games.
“The pressure from fans and the football public is much lower, so he would also have much more time to adapt to the new environment,” they wrote.
Sesko’s initial start was described as a ‘cold shower’ by Ekipa. The newspaper also labeled his late penalty as “bizarre.”
After his first start, Benjamin Sesko must move on, not dwelling on one early-season performance.
He is expected to play against Burnley this weekend in the Premier League, as United urgently need a win after their slow start.
The Slovenian forward did not have a full pre-season with either RB Leipzig or Manchester United, so getting through 90 minutes against Grimsby should serve him well as he builds fitness and sharpness.
Building an understanding with new teammates such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo will naturally take time, especially given all three are still finding their feet at Old Trafford.
It is easy to forget that this move was always about more than money for Sesko. He called Manchester United his “dream transfer,” even though other offers were more lucrative.
This week may not have gone as planned, but these early setbacks can often be valuable lessons for players adjusting to new surroundings.
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