Lay off Benjamin Sesko as Man Utd’s £74m striker struggles in Ruben Amorim’s baffling system

Sesko’s dream move turns into a tough start

When Manchester United unveiled Benjamin Sesko this summer after a £74 million transfer from RB Leipzig, there was a sense of optimism around Old Trafford. Here was a 22-year-old striker who had terrorised Bundesliga defences with his aerial power, sharp movement, and clinical edge. Even manager Ruben Amorim praised him on arrival, calling him “smart” and “a striker who can make history at United.”

But seven games into his Premier League career, the dream start hasn’t materialised. Sesko went six matches without a goal before finally scoring against Brentford — a scrappy strike bundled home at the third attempt. It was a relief for the Slovenian, but the joy was short-lived. United still lost 3-1, sliding further down the table, and the focus quickly shifted back to Amorim’s faltering system.

The system is the problem, not the striker

Benjamin Sesko Manchester United 2025

Criticism has come quickly for Sesko, but most of it is misplaced. The issue is less about his individual performances and more about how Amorim is setting the team up. United’s attack feels stifled, with little service reaching the big man up top. Sesko is being asked to operate as a lone striker in a narrow 3-4-3 formation, without the width or delivery he thrived on in Germany.

At Leipzig, he fed off constant supply from wide areas, dominating in the air with 70 headed duels won last season alone. In Amorim’s United, those crosses are scarce. Instead, Sesko is often left isolated, making runs that go unnoticed while the team’s predictable passing moves go sideways and backwards. It’s an impossible job.

Statistics that tell the story

The numbers underline the problem. In the league, Sesko has averaged just 14 touches per game and 1.8 shots. He hasn’t created a single big chance, and his passing accuracy sits at 69%. Those figures are less a reflection of his quality and more proof that United simply aren’t playing to his strengths.

Factor in that United have posted the worst expected goals difference in the division so far, and his struggles make complete sense. You can’t score if the chances don’t come.

From Leipzig star to Old Trafford scapegoat

This wasn’t supposed to be such a steep learning curve. Sesko arrived with a glowing reputation, chased by clubs across Europe, including Newcastle, who even offered more money. He chose United, sacrificing part of his salary because he believed in the project, the history, and the promises of a brighter future under new ownership.

At his unveiling, Sesko spoke passionately about “positive energy” and a “family environment” at the club. Yet two months in, that buzz has already evaporated. United look far from elite, and Sesko, who once thrived in the Bundesliga, now finds himself labelled a flop by critics eager for easy targets.

The unfair criticism and penalty shootout drama

Benjamin Sesko Man Utd 2025

Perhaps the most unfair moment came in the Carabao Cup shock against Grimsby Town. United were dumped out after a marathon penalty shootout, and although Sesko converted his kick, pundits piled in on him for stepping up so late in the order. Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor even called him a “coward.”

But Amorim later explained he had protected Sesko, who was struggling with cramp in his first start. The explanation made perfect sense, yet the narrative of Sesko as mentally weak stuck in some corners of the media. It was another example of how quick the judgment has been on a player still finding his feet.

Amorim’s tactical stubbornness

Manchester United v Burnley – Premier League

If Sesko is to succeed, United’s system must adapt. Amorim’s narrow 3-4-3 is not only failing the striker, it’s limiting the whole attack. Players like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, both signed for big money, are being used as inside forwards instead of stretching play. The lack of natural width makes it far too easy for opponents to block passing lanes to Sesko.

A switch to a 4-2-3-1 could change everything. With Cunha and Mbeumo out wide and Bruno Fernandes pushed closer to the striker, Sesko would finally have the kind of service he needs. It’s a simple tweak that could unlock his aerial dominance and link-up play, rather than wasting him in a system that blunts his biggest strengths.

Support from team-mates

Manchester United v Chelsea – Premier League

Despite the rough start, Sesko has the backing of the dressing room. Harry Maguire has described him as a “unit” and tipped him to trouble defenders for years to come. Casemiro has echoed that sentiment, calling him “a player who is going to be very important for us.” That kind of faith suggests his teammates see qualities that the system isn’t yet allowing him to showcase.

Adaptation takes time

It’s also worth remembering how little football Sesko has played so far — just over 400 minutes in total. For a young striker moving into one of the world’s most demanding leagues, that’s not nearly enough time to build rhythm. He didn’t enjoy a full pre-season either, but is now fully fit and deserves a consistent run in the starting XI.

He has already proven he has the right mentality. “The level is higher, but I am improving every training session,” he said during international duty. “I wanted to move to England, and fortunately my wish came true.” That ambition alone suggests he won’t shy away from the challenge.

Sesko Hojlund

The bigger picture at Old Trafford

The truth is that Sesko’s struggles are a symptom of deeper issues. United are once again stuck in tactical confusion, their expensive summer signings failing to click because the system doesn’t suit them. Amorim’s stubbornness is holding the team back, and if results don’t improve soon, pressure will only increase on his position.

Reports suggest that a managerial change could come as early as November, when INEOS would no longer face financial penalties for sacking him. If that happens, Sesko might finally get the fresh start he needs within the club.

Manchester United v Arsenal – Premier League

Final thoughts: patience required

For now, the critics need to ease off. Benjamin Sesko hasn’t become a bad player overnight. He remains a 6ft 5in powerhouse with aerial dominance, technical ability, and huge potential. What he lacks is the system to show it. Until Amorim gives him the platform he deserves — or until change inevitably comes — United fans shouldn’t judge him too harshly.

If anything, the conversation should be about the coach, not the striker. Sesko’s qualities are clear; the question is whether Manchester United are willing to build around them.