Former professional footballer Troy Deeney has delivered a scathing assessment of Manchester United’s young striker, Benjamin Sesko, questioning his impact and overall presence on the pitch.
Deeney didn’t mince words, describing Sesko’s movements as resembling a “baby giraffe” – awkward and uncoordinated. He believes the player appears disconnected from his teammates, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, failing to establish a cohesive attacking rhythm.
Despite Sesko scoring twice before the recent international break, Deeney expected a surge in confidence that simply hasn’t materialized. He acknowledges that scoring droughts are common, but his concerns extend far beyond goal numbers.
The critique became strikingly personal, with Deeney jokingly claiming he could generate more power than the six-foot-four-inch forward. He observed that Sesko doesn’t physically impose himself, consistently appearing off-balance and reactive rather than proactive.
Deeney pinpointed a fundamental disconnect in Sesko’s play: when his teammates need him to make a run in behind the defense, he comes short, and vice versa. This unpredictable movement leaves United’s attack disjointed and ineffective.
However, Deeney’s criticism wasn’t solely directed at the player himself. He argued that Manchester United bears responsibility for placing an unproven talent in a challenging situation without the guidance of an experienced veteran.
He believes a seasoned striker is crucial to mentor young players, offering real-time instruction and teaching essential skills like ball retention. Without this guidance, Deeney fears United is repeating a costly pattern of investing heavily in strikers who ultimately fail to deliver.
Deeney even suggested a surprising preference: he would rather have Wout Weghorst, a player previously deemed unsuccessful at the club, leading the line over Sesko. He praised Weghorst’s willingness to fight for every ball and disrupt opposing defenses.
Sesko’s perceived “reclusive” nature further fuels Deeney’s concerns. He speculates that the player might be intellectually gifted but lacks the necessary social interaction and assertiveness required to thrive in a high-pressure environment like Manchester United.
Ultimately, Deeney insists Sesko needs to demonstrate more energy and urgency. He argues that playing for a club of United’s stature demands a relentless work ethic and a willingness to make impactful runs, qualities he currently finds lacking in the young striker’s game.
