Berbatov urges Gary Neville to be less harsh with Sesko
The former Man United striker offered constructive feedback, warning that repeated criticism could undermine the confidence of Benjamin Sesko – who has only scored 2 goals in 11 matches. MU visited Tottenham; both teams have 17 points after 10 rounds.
Dimitar Berbatov has urged Gary Neville and his former Manchester United teammates to be more restrained and give constructive feedback to Benjamin Sesko. According to Berbatov, the repeated criticism could erode the 22-year-old striker's confidence as United prepare to visit Tottenham this weekend, with both teams tied on 17 points after 10 rounds.
Benjamin Sesko's form and key numbers
Sesko was brought to Old Trafford to replace Rasmus Hojlund (who moved to Napoli), but has had a quiet start. He scored two goals in a row before the October international break, and that is all he has scored in 11 appearances this season.
- Age: 22
- Goals this season: 2
- Number of appearances: 11
- Scoring period: two consecutive games before October training camp
Last weekend’s game against Nottingham Forest was the point where Sesko was put under increased scrutiny, with Gary Neville saying he “didn’t have anything to prove” and “looked a bit clumsy and underperforming”.
Tactical perspective: the need for the number 9 position
For a Manchester United No. 9, the pressure isn’t just about goals. The position often requires intelligent movement to open up space, act as a wall and link the midfield with the attack, and establish a presence in the box. When goals are inconsistent, every first touch, challenge or shot decision is scrutinised – especially in stalemates.
In that context, adaptation and confidence become crucial. A young striker like Sesko needs a series of positive moments to establish habits – from feel for the ball to positional choices – before the performance is reflected clearly on the scoreboard. That is also why Berbatov's "constructive" reminder carries weight.
Berbatov: criticism but need to "build"
Berbatov insists the right to criticize is legitimate, but warns of the negative impact of prolonged criticism: “Anyone can criticize on social media or on television. But no matter how strong you are, repeated criticism will affect you.”
He added of his approach: “It can affect performance, mood and confidence, because at the end of the day, we are all human beings. I always try to give constructive feedback, to help players reflect and develop.”
With Neville, Berbatov respects the voice of a former MU veteran: "Gary Neville has the right to criticize what he has achieved at United. But personally, I always try to see the positive side, hoping Sesko will soon regain his form to bring home the goals that a United No. 9 needs."
Neville Skeptical, Psychological Test for Sesko
Neville’s comments – “nothing to confirm” and “looked clumsy, underperforming” – hit the nail on the head: consistency. With two goals in 11 games, the Slovenian needs a complete performance to turn the tide. It’s not just the goals, it’s the sense of control in his play and the initiative in his movement.
Before the trip to Tottenham: the rhythm of a marathon
Berbatov said: “I am optimistic but cautious. The Premier League is not a sprint, it is a marathon. Both United and Tottenham have quality players, and both are still looking for sharpness in attack.”
This weekend’s match therefore becomes a test for both Sesko as a team and as an individual. After 10 rounds, the two teams have 17 points, just 1 point behind the top 4 – a gap small enough to change the situation in a moment. For Sesko, just one well-timed shot or a wall situation that opens up a goal for a teammate can change the story.
Summary of notable facts
- Sesko is expected to replace Rasmus Hojlund (who moved to Napoli) in the number 9 role.
- Both of Sesko's goals came before the October international break.
- Gary Neville expressed his doubts after the match against Nottingham Forest.
- Berbatov called for constructive feedback to protect the young player's confidence.
- MU visits Tottenham this weekend; both teams have 17 points after 10 rounds, 1 point behind the top 4.
The problem for MU is still efficiency in the penalty area. For Sesko, the best answer to any doubts is always performance on the field - where each neat situation can compress the pressure and open a new rhythm for the season.