Slovenian media outlets have voiced strong criticism regarding Manchester United manager Michael Carrick's usage of striker Benjamin Sesko. The controversy intensified ahead of the team's Champions League return, with several publications questioning whether Sesko is being unfairly treated by the current system.
The country's rights-holding TV channel 24ur Sport posed the question, "Is Sesko a victim of the coach’s system?" while leading website Ekipa targeted Matheus Cunha, the 'false nine' who has started the season ahead of the Slovenian international. Ekipa described Cunha's performance in the recent 2-2 draw against Everton as "catastrophic," noting zero shots on target, zero assists, and eleven turnovers, in contrast to Sesko's impact after coming off the bench. The outlet further stated that Carrick's "insistence that Sesko is still more effective on the bench, while the Brazilian plays up front, is driving fans crazy."
Sesko has made three appearances as a substitute this season, scoring in the draw at Everton. He has become accustomed to impactful substitute appearances, a role he also filled at times last season under Carrick. After scoring just twice in the first half of the previous season, Sesko found form under caretaker manager Darren Fletcher, scoring three goals in two games, and added seven more under Carrick, despite often starting on the bench. The striker had a run of four starts before an injury sidelined him.
Player's Dedication and Training Regimen
Despite the public debate, Sesko is reportedly focused on his fitness and performance. Following a shin injury that ended his first season prematurely, he dedicated his summer to intense physical conditioning. The striker, who has been described as a "control freak" by former United boss Ruben Amorim, has invested in a home facility featuring a gymnasium, pool, ice bath, and sauna for recovery and training. He also utilizes hyperbaric chambers, red-light therapy, and works with a personal trainer at the club's Carrington training ground.
Furthermore, Sesko employs virtual reality glasses to simulate game scenarios, works with a mind coach, and practices meditation as part of his holistic approach to preparation. The striker, standing at 6ft 5in, has noticeably increased his muscle mass this season, presenting a more imposing physical presence.
Carrick's Tactical Decisions and Team Performance
Carrick has utilized a 4-2-3-1 formation, often employing Cunha as a false nine. This tactical choice has drawn scrutiny, especially as the team has secured only four points from their opening three league matches against Hull, Ipswich, and Everton. The coach acknowledged Sesko's progress, stating, "He’s probably trained three and a bit weeks fully with no restrictions. I think you can see that, coming onto the pitch and getting his rhythm. It was a fantastic goal (against Everton), and what he did an awful lot for us last season. So, he's in a good place. He'll obviously be part of each and every game, and it's just a case of when he takes that next step."
United's attacking unit, which has also included Bryan Mbeumo and Marcus Rashford, has struggled to consistently create clear-cut chances. Rashford, who had been performing well, recently suffered a hamstring injury that could rule him out of the upcoming Champions League opener against Azerbaijani club Sabah and potentially the Manchester derby. The absence of Amad Diallo, who is still recovering from injury, further limits Carrick's options.
Upcoming Fixtures and Sesko's Potential Role
Manchester United faces a busy schedule, with a Europa League fixture against Sabah followed by the 199th Manchester derby. The team's performance against Everton, where they were outshot and had a lower expected goals (xG) than their opponents, highlighted their struggles. Sesko's goal against Everton, a header from a Luke Shaw cross, demonstrated his aerial threat and ability to convert chances. Despite a late equalizer from Everton, Sesko's contribution was significant.
With Rashford potentially sidelined, Sesko may be given his first start of the season against Sabah. Slovenian media outlet 24ur Sport suggests it "seems like the perfect opportunity" for the striker to make his mark from the outset. The club's tactical approach, with the Under 21 and Under 18 sides also experimenting with similar formations, suggests a potential club-wide shift in offensive strategy.