Sesko’s Struggles Continue as United Settles for Draw Against Leeds

omidbasir- Since his transfer from RB Leipzig to Manchester United at the beginning of the season, Benjamin Sesko has yet to justify his substantial price tag, managing only two goals in 16 Premier League appearances. In the recent 1-1 draw against Leeds, the 6ft 5in forward squandered several prime scoring opportunities, highlighting the Red Devils’ ongoing struggles in their pursuit of Champions League qualification. Despite controlling 54.8 percent of possession and attempting 15 shots compared to Leeds’ 10, United could not convert their advantage into a win, as reflected in their expected goals tally of 1.46 versus Leeds’ 0.92. Coach Amorim lamented the team’s inability to capitalize on their chances.

Amorim remarked to TNT Sports, “I believe we played well and had more control in this match compared to our performance against Wolves. This control is crucial as it allows us to prepare better for upcoming games by learning from past mistakes. We managed to control Leeds effectively, particularly in set pieces and second balls, although they are notably quick on the counterattack. We had opportunities to secure a victory, but unfortunately, we are losing games due to minor details. The Leeds goal stemmed from a single moment in transition, yet we did well to bounce back. Unlike last year, we have significantly more control in our games, but it is frustrating not to secure the win.”

Despite some shortcomings, Denmark international Hojlund found the back of the net 26 times in 95 games for United before being loaned to Napoli last summer, where he has scored nine goals in 20 matches. Currently, the 22-year-old appears eager to make his move to Conte’s team permanent. Meanwhile, even though Sesko has not yet reached the heights he displayed at Leipzig, Amorim remains optimistic about his potential, calling for improvement in his finishing.

He stated, “It’s important that he consistently finds himself in goal-scoring situations. That is the first step. He shows aggression when challenging for the ball, but missing chances can lead to criticism. If he can score just one, the pressure will ease. We need to maintain possession to play the style of football we aspire to, rather than reverting to a more transitional style. Compared to last week, our performance was better, and I believe Ben is doing the right things; he just needs to refine his finishing.”

Matheus Cunha’s second-half goal equalized after Brenden Aaronson’s opener, marking the Brazilian’s fourth goal of the season. Amorim praised not only Cunha but also Josh Zirkzee for his impactful 20-minute performance and highlighted the importance of a collaborative team effort in attack.

Amorim stated, “It wasn’t just Cunha; Josh played exceptionally well in his short time on the pitch, and Ben linked the play effectively today. Manuel Ugarte is also showing great potential, and I’m pleased with their contributions. When these players perform well, we always have a chance to win.”

While Cunha started alongside Sesko in the attack, he expressed particular admiration for United substitute Zirkzee, who assisted in the equalizer. He noted, “Each game, we aim to win, but after the draw against Wolves at Old Trafford, we felt disappointed. We wanted to come here and win to secure a spot in the top four. The sentiment after this draw is similar; we were eager for victory but must regroup and try again. The first half was decent, but we discussed managing the press better, which we attempted to implement. Ultimately, we conceded due to a lack of concentration, yet scoring shortly after gave us energy to push for more.

“Josh is a pleasure to play with; he possesses remarkable quality. While his situation may not be ideal, he is capable of making a significant impact. We are here to support him. After his goal last week and an assist today, I believe his confidence will grow and he will fulfill his role effectively.”

Struggling forward Sesko will look to regain his goal-scoring form when United faces relegation-threatened Burnley in the Premier League on Wednesday, followed by a clash against Brighton in the third round of the FA Cup four days later.