Wayne Rooney has delivered a refreshingly honest verdict on Manchester United’s new striker Benjamin Sesko, and it’s one that might raise a few eyebrows among the Old Trafford faithful.
The club legend believes the Slovenian has all the tools to succeed — but it’s the finer details of his praise that tell the real story.
Sesko arrived at Manchester United from RB Leipzig in the summer for a hefty £74 million fee.
Expectations were sky-high, but the 22-year-old’s slow start — six goalless games across competitions — had fans worried they’d seen this movie before.
Then came a turnaround. Two goals in back-to-back games against Brentford and Sunderland suddenly had everyone talking.
Rooney, speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, offered a measured yet optimistic assessment of the young forward’s progress.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
“I think he’s a handful,” Rooney said. “He uses his body well, challenges for balls, and it makes it easier for Mbeumo and Cunha when he’s on the ball to make runs in behind him. That’s clearly something they’ve worked on, and obviously getting another goal will help him.”
He also praised Sesko’s aerial strength and movement off the ball, pointing out how his presence gives United a more direct threat.
According to Rooney, that physical edge — something United have missed since his own playing days — could be the missing ingredient in Ruben Amorim’s attacking system.
Benjamin Sesko: A work in progress
Getty Images
Rooney highlighted that Amorim’s tactical tweak to play two strikers against Sunderland helped Sesko shine.
The Red Devils looked sharper and more balanced, with the young striker finally finding rhythm in front of goal. But Rooney also sounded a note of caution.
“It’s not about one game,” he added. “He needs to stay consistent, keep doing the basics right, and listen to what the manager wants.”
With United sitting mid-table and set to face Liverpool after the international break, Sesko’s growing confidence could be crucial.
Rooney’s assessment might not be dripping with nostalgia or hype, but it’s exactly the kind of grounded belief that could fuel the youngster’s rise.
Manchester United news and related links
- Man Utd rocked by surprise exit of key figure behind wonderkid revolution
- Premier League duo chase Man United outcast as January option
- Man United star tipped for shock move to Saudi Pro League