Gyokeres and Sesko: Premier League Newcomers Under Pressure

Arsenal and Manchester United were both linked with RB Leipzig’s promising striker, Benjamin Sesko; however, Arsenal opted to sign Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million (€74 million/$86 million) in late July.

A few weeks later, Sesko made a move to Manchester United for £74 million ($100 million). According to The Independent, United were ‘stunned’ to discover they could acquire Sesko. Upon joining the club last summer, Sesko remarked, “The history of Manchester United is obviously very special, but what truly excites me is the future. In our discussions about the project, it became clear that everything is in place for this team to grow and compete for the biggest trophies soon. From the moment I arrived, I felt the positive energy and family atmosphere the club has cultivated. It is clearly the perfect environment to reach my full potential and fulfill my ambitions. I eagerly anticipate learning from Ruben [Amorim] and connecting with my teammates to achieve the success we all know we are capable of together.”

Both Gyokeres and Sesko arrived at their respective Premier League clubs with established goalscoring records, yet the significant question remains: Can they handle the demands of the Premier League? Currently, Gyokeres has netted five league goals in 20 matches, while Sesko has scored four in 17 games. With Gabriel Jesus scoring twice in Arsenal’s 3-1 Champions League victory over Inter Milan recently, Gyokeres might find himself on the bench, and there are no guarantees that Sesko will start either. Former United forward Giuseppe Rossi believes both strikers require time to adapt to their new teams.

Rossi stated to OLBG, “Everyone needs time. You can’t expect immediate results from players. There aren’t many Wayne Rooneys around. Give him time; he possesses the quality. I believe he can handle the pressure and will fulfill the role he was brought to Arsenal for. Imagine a match-up between Gyokeres and Sesko; that would be incredible. They could both leave their mark on the season in such an important game. However, I hope to see good football from Arsenal versus United, reminiscent of the rivalry from earlier days.”

As United prepares for their upcoming match against Arsenal, interim manager Michael Carrick has revealed he is deliberating over who will spearhead the attack. This could include Sesko, versatile forward Matheus Cunha, or even winger Bryan Mbeumo.

“I don’t see it as losing momentum for Sesko,” Carrick explained. “As I mentioned, we chose a team for last week to approach the game in a specific manner. I believe he is in a good place and has trained exceptionally well. We are committed to developing him as much as possible. I have been genuinely impressed with his training, finishing, and overall approach. I see this period as a stepping stone for him to push forward and establish himself here long-term.”

Following their visit to the Premier League leaders at Emirates Stadium this Sunday, United will kick off February with a home match against Fulham. On 7 February, they will host a struggling Tottenham in the Premier League.