Benjamin Sesko set for high-stakes Manchester United debut against Arsenal. Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that record £74 million signing Benjamin Sesko is “ready to play” in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford, potentially handing the Slovenian striker an immediate debut in one of English football’s most intense rivalries.
Physical and Mental Readiness
Despite limited pre-season integration after arriving from RB Leipzig last week, Amorim emphatically declared Benjamin Sesko is physically set for the Premier League’s demands: “He hasn’t had a lot of time, [but] physically he’s ready. That is a big component in our league”. The 22-year-old’s extra fitness work—spending afternoons on recovery and stretching—convinced the coaching staff of his sharpness. Amorim also highlighted Sesko’s tactical intelligence, noting he is “really smart, a guy who’s always thinking” and asking “smart questions” to accelerate his adaptation.
Long-Term Investment Meets Immediate Impact
Amorim framed Sesko’s signing as a cornerstone of United’s rebuild, emphasizing his potential to lead the line for years: “Ben can be a striker for United for a lot of years. That’s why we paid so much money to have a striker who will have his history in our club”. The manager dismissed concerns about Sesko handling pressure, praising his “obsessive” focus: “He is always thinking about football. Every game is do or die—you don’t have to worry about that with him”.
Tactical Implications and Hojlund’s Future
- Sesko’s likely inclusion (possibly alongside fellow debutants Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo) signals Amorim’s aggressive overhaul after United’s dismal 15th-place finish in 2024/25.
- His debut intensifies speculation around Rasmus Hojlund’s exit, with AC Milan linked to the Dane. Amorim offered a terse update: “He is one more option… still our player”.
The Gyokeres-Sesko Subplot
Sunday’s matchup matches Sesko against Arsenal’s new £50 million striker Viktor Gyokeres, a match that is already fraught with irony. Sesko was previously thought to be joining Arsenal, while Gyokeres was on Manchester United’s radar (as well as Nottingham Forest and several other clubs). Their matchup will serve as a symbolic test of each club’s recruiting process.
What’s at Stake
With United seeking redemption and Arsenal chasing the title after three runner-up finishes, Sesko’s debut carries immense weight. Amorim’s willingness to thrust him into the fire reflects both necessity and faith. As the manager warned: “Every game is do or die”—a mantra Sesko’s obsession must now justify.
Old Trafford, Sunday 16:30 BST | Live on Sky Sports.
