Sesko has scored in back-to-back matches following his return from a shin injury that kept the Slovenian forward sidelined for nearly three months, raising hopes that Manchester United’s powerful striker could be ready to make a major impact in one of the Premier League’s biggest fixtures.
The 23-year-old first struck late in United’s dramatic 2-2 draw against Everton before following it with another goal in Wednesday’s commanding 4-0 Champions League victory over Sabah at Old Trafford.
Now, with Manchester City looming, attention is turning to one crucial question: Has Sesko done enough to earn a starting place?
Carrick Delighted as Sesko Finds His Rhythm Again
Michael Carrick said he was pleased with the striker’s growing influence after a difficult period on the sidelines.
Sesko’s return has been carefully managed since he came back last month, with Manchester United gradually increasing his minutes. But his recent performances suggest the Slovenian is beginning to regain the sharpness and confidence that made him one of United’s most dangerous attacking options.
Carrick highlighted Sesko’s physical presence, pace and ability to stretch opposition defenses by operating on the last line — qualities that could become particularly important against Manchester City.
The United boss now faces an intriguing tactical decision. Sesko offers a traditional focal point in attack, while recent reporting has also highlighted how his physical profile could better complement United’s heavy use of wide deliveries and crosses. At 6ft 5in, the Slovenian provides a significantly different attacking option in the penalty area.
Sesko Scores Again as United Cruise Past Sabah
Manchester United’s 4-0 Champions League victory over Azerbaijani champions Sabah provided another timely boost before the derby.
Matheus Cunha opened the scoring before Bruno Fernandes and Sesko struck before halftime, with Lisandro Martinez completing the scoring later in the match. The result gave Carrick’s side a convincing European victory and, perhaps more importantly, fresh attacking momentum heading into a far tougher domestic test.
Sesko’s goal was his second in consecutive appearances, strengthening the argument that he is ready for a bigger role.
For the striker himself, the recent goals have also provided a valuable confidence boost after his lengthy injury absence.
Should Sesko Start Against Manchester City?
That is now the biggest question surrounding Manchester United’s attack.
United have shown flashes of creativity, but their recent matches have also exposed issues at both ends of the pitch. Against Everton, Sesko came off the bench to score what appeared to be a crucial late goal, only for United to concede a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser.
His performance against Sabah only intensified the debate.
With City expected to pose a much greater challenge, Sesko could offer United an important outlet. His pace gives the team the ability to threaten space behind a defensive line, while his height and physicality could provide a target for United’s wide players.
Carrick has also demonstrated previously that he is willing to adapt his selections for major matches. The manager will have to balance Sesko’s improving form against the need to manage a player who has only recently returned from a significant injury.
Manchester United Head Into Derby With Momentum — But Questions Remain
The 4-0 win over Sabah was an encouraging response after United’s frustrating draw against Everton, and the clean sheet provided another positive for a side that has faced criticism over defensive inconsistency.
But the Manchester derby represents an entirely different level of pressure.
A strong European night can build confidence, but Manchester City will provide a far more demanding test of United’s defensive structure, midfield control and attacking efficiency.
For Carrick, however, one positive is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Benjamin Sesko is scoring again.
After months of injury frustration and a carefully managed return, the Slovenian striker appears to be building momentum at the perfect time.
And if Carrick decides to unleash him from the start against Manchester City, Sesko could find himself at the centre of one of the Premier League’s biggest matches of the weekend.
Two goals. Two matches. One massive derby ahead.
The only question now is whether Michael Carrick believes Benjamin Sesko is ready to lead Manchester United’s attack when it matters most.
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