Man United thought Benjamin Sesko had turned a corner, new stats show they may need to think again
Man United were relieved Benjamin Sesko scored in back-to-back games before the international break yet his performances for Slovenia are cause for concern.
Sesko ended his goal drought for Man United against Brentford in a 3-1 defeat on 27 September after five Premier League matches without one.
The Slovenian then backed this up with another strike against Sunderland on 4 October, making Ruben Amorim and fans alike believe he had finally turned a corner at Old Trafford.
However, United supporters should urge on the side of caution with Sesko disappointing for Slovenia against Kosovo on 10 October, suggesting the excitement of his improved performances was a premature reaction.
Sesko’s wretched Slovenia form to worry Man United
The former RB Leipzig frontman failed to find the back of the net against Switzerland on 13 October as both side were stuck in a lifeless stalemate 0-0 draw.
The 22-year-old amassed just one shot in the entire 90 minutes, touching the ball 31 times.
The number 30 actually spent more time defending than in the attacking third, racking up five recoveries and winning five of his seven aerial duels.
| Selected stats vs Switzerland (13 October) | Benjamin Sesko |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Total shots (on target) | 1 (0) |
| Touches | 31 |
| Possession lost | 9 |
| Recoveries | 5 |
| Clearances | 2 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
Whilst those stats are promising for a hard-working utility forward, the ex-RB Salzburg man is known for his ruthless finishing ability which appears to have completely deserted him.
Another international match without a goal sees Sesko’s goal drought with Slovenia stretch all the way back to November 2024, a record that will concern Amorim.
Sesko’s pre-international break promise could be short-lived
The Red Devils next face up against Liverpool who don’t come into the match in sparkling form.
The Reds were humbled 2-1 by Chelsea on 4 October, extending a winless three-match run in all competitions despite starting the campaign in good knick.
Amorim will fancy his side to try and grab something away from home but the shambolic form of his prized striker during the international break will be cause for concern.
Ideally, all managers want their international performers to maintain their fitness levels whilst also delivering on the global stage via goals, assists or all-round solid performances.
Sesko has provided none of these in the two-week hiatus from the Premier League, which could see him about to embark on another goalless run.
Rasmus Hojlund has embarrassed Man United since he left the club and maybe the Slovenian will do better stationed elsewhere, rather than at the poisoned Old Trafford.