Tim Sherwood points out howManchester United’s tactics against Sunderland saw Benjamin Sesko thrive
Manchester United fans have been yearning for a clinical performance from their team after a disastrous start to the season in the ongoing 2025/26. The Red Devils finally achieved one with a 2-0 win over Sunderland at Old Trafford on October 4. Ruben Amorim’s side has faced a lot of criticism for not being clinical in the final third, but they started the game against Sunderland with a lot of purpose.
Mason Mount scored the opening goal for the team and provided the impetus for the fans. Sunderland tried to come back into the game, but Benjamin Sesko scored his second goal of the season, and his first at Old Trafford, from a long throw. The Slovenian finally displayed why United paid a heavy buck for him, and he was more direct, confident and clinical.
Sunderland felt that they had an opportunity to come back into the game when the referee gave a penalty in the fag end of the first half, but VAR overturned it, stating that there was no contact between Sesko and Trai Humer. The Red Devils controlled the match, and the debutant Senne Lammens preserved the first clean sheet of the season for United.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports Pundit Tim Sherwood has praised United for using Sesko in a better way through more directness. He felt that the Slovenian changed the rhythm of the game, and heaped praise on his involvement in the attack earlier in the game. Sherwood felt that Sesko got more touches in the first half than in the other matches in the season, and this is because Smorim used Sesko’s strengths rather than overcomplicating from the back.
“It’s interesting how Man Utd are going about this,” he said.
“They’re playing directly into Sesko. I’ve never seen him have so many touches so early in a game. It’s pleasing to see.
“They’re not asking Lammens to play out in silly areas, and it’s paying off.”
“It’s a wonderfully timed run from Sesko. Well done, son,” he said.
“He’s had more touches in the first half here than in all the other games.
“They’re making him feel like he’s part of it.”
Via: Sky Sports
Benjamin Sesko’s Role Could Define Manchester United’s Season
United’s performance showed progress, and Sesko’s display offered a clear plan for revival. After finishing last season with their lowest Premier League points total, United badly need a reliable goalscorer. Sesko’s record in the Bundesliga—27 goals in 64 matches for RB Leipzig—demonstrates that he possesses the instinct and sharpness required at this level. The 22-year-old attacks space, holds up play, links passes, and stretches defences with clever runs. Ruben Amorim needs to build a system that brings out those qualities.
The key is to build fluid movement around him. Bruno Fernandes’ creativity can supply him well, though playing deeper this season has limited his influence. Reports suggest the Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes, is unhappy with his deeper role under Ruben Amorim. So, United have to think about his role as well.
Meanwhile, runs from Bryan Mbeumo can create space for the 22-year-old, and the team must keep a steady rhythm with crosses into the box. He must improve his decision-making and shoot more often as United balances transitions and possession. Sesko’s adaptation could shape United’s season. With Joshua Zirkzee facing an uncertain future at Manchester United, the striker now carries greater responsibility up front. If Amorim gives him steady service and faith, Sesko can lead United’s rebuild. The Sunderland match meant more than three points; it showed intent and hinted that Amorim’s plan is finally taking shape.