Daijiworld Media Network - London
London, Sep 14: As anticipation builds for Sunday’s Manchester derby, Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has revealed that summer signing Benjamin Sesko may be in line for his first Premier League start. The Slovenian striker, who joined from RB Leipzig during the transfer window, has so far been limited to substitute appearances in United’s opening league fixtures, but his growing involvement suggests he could be ready to feature from the off against Manchester City at the Etihad.
Sesko impressed in his full debut during the Carabao Cup clash with Grimsby Town, where he played the entire match and confidently converted his penalty in the shootout. After gaining valuable international minutes for Slovenia during the recent break, Amorim believes the timing might be right to unleash the 20-year-old in one of the season’s biggest fixtures.
“More than just what he did in the games, it’s about what he can bring to our team,” Amorim said at the pre-match press conference. “Against Burnley, he had movements inside the box that we don’t see with Josh [Zirkzee], [Matheus] Cunha, or even Rasmus [Hojlund] in the past. He gives us something different — he wants to get into the box, he can run, and he’s a threat in the air. The pace is something he’s still adjusting to, but maybe, against City, it’s the right time to start him.”
The Portuguese coach also addressed the development of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who has seen limited minutes this season despite high expectations. Mainoo has started only once so far, and Amorim suggested that careful management is key to unlocking the teenager’s full potential.
“A lot of people think Kobbie is already there, but I believe he can be much better,” Amorim said. “Some players reach a level and that’s enough — for him, it’s not. Maybe it’s not fair to him, but I think I’m helping him by holding him to a higher standard.”
With big decisions looming ahead of the derby, Amorim appears ready to inject new energy into his side — and all eyes will be on whether Sesko gets the nod in what could be a defining moment early in United’s season.