Benjamin Sesko: Is it time for Michael Carrick to give him a starting spot at Man Utd?
With 3 goals in 5 appearances under Michael Carrick, Benjamin Sesko is proving to be the ultimate weapon for Man Utd to break through Crystal Palace's defense.
The clash between Manchester United and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford is not only significant in terms of points in the race for the top three, but also presents interim manager Michael Carrick with a difficult personnel dilemma. After the turbulent period following Ruben Amorim's departure, the Red Devils' attack is gradually stabilizing, but Benjamin Sesko's explosive form is creating positive pressure on the starting lineup.
Breaking the "super substitute" label under Michael Carrick
The most important reason Benjamin Sesko deserves to be trusted is his impressive goalscoring record since the change in management. Previously doubted for his finishing ability under Ruben Amorim, having scored only two goals in 17 games, the 22-year-old Slovenian striker is showing a completely different side under Michael Carrick's guidance.
In just his last five substitute appearances, Sesko has scored three valuable goals. This performance proves that Sesko is no longer just an option to refresh the squad or simply find goals, but that he is ready to lead the attack from the start. Continuing to keep a player in such good form on the bench could stifle the enthusiasm and rising confidence of this striker.
Exploiting Crystal Palace's Achilles' heel
The personnel situation of their opponent, Crystal Palace, is presenting a golden opportunity for Sesko. Oliver Glasner's team suffered a major blow in the January transfer window when key defender Marc Guehi moved to Manchester City for £20 million. This absence has left Palace's defense more vulnerable, especially in aerial situations.
This is fertile ground for Sesko to maximize his 1.95m (6'5") height advantage. Although his recent goals against Everton and West Ham were scored with his feet, Sesko's ability to hold off defenders and win aerial duels will be an extremely dangerous weapon for Man Utd to exploit their opponents' weaknesses. A striker with Sesko's height and strength will be a nightmare for any defense undergoing rebuilding.
The problem of Amad Diallo's physical condition and overwork.
The decision to promote Sesko to the starting lineup is also directly related to Amad Diallo's fitness level. The Ivorian star has endured an exhausting season since the beginning. Not only has he played a crucial role for Man Utd, accumulating 1,712 minutes of playing time across 21 Premier League matches, but Amad has also been constantly playing in the AFCON 2025 tournament with his national team.
In total, with over 2,100 minutes played in all competitions before the season ended, signs of fatigue were inevitable. Michael Carrick's decision to rest Amad and give Sesko a chance not only helped protect the young talent's legs but also allowed Man Utd to maintain the necessary pressing intensity. This change allowed the Red Devils' attack to become more unpredictable and effective against Palace's defense.
Perspectives from the experts
Leading football pundits like Ian Wright and Steve Bruce have both praised Sesko's progress. Steve Bruce emphasized that Michael Carrick is facing a "big decision" regarding his attacking lineup for the upcoming match. Meanwhile, Ian Wright stated that Sesko's decisive goal against Everton was proof of the striker's true class.
When a player has proven their ability in crucial moments, giving them a starting spot is a well-deserved reward. This is also the most logical tactic for Man Utd to maintain their momentum and aim to consolidate their third-place position in the league table this weekend.
