Manchester United's £74 million new signing, Benjamin Sesko, was once again left out of the starting lineup in the Premier League's second round match against Fulham. Coach Ruben Amorim provided clarification on the choice that raised questions among many Red Devils supporters.
Joining MU from RB Leipzig this summer for £74 million, Benjamin Sesko was highly anticipated to become the main striker at Old Trafford. However, the 22-year-old forward has yet to start after two Premier League matches.
In the opening match against Arsenal, Sesko was only brought on as a substitute. Moving on to the second game against Fulham, the Slovenian striker was again absent from the starting eleven, with Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo preferred instead.
The only change in MU's lineup compared to the previous match was Amad Diallo replacing Diogo Dalot on the right wing. In goal, Altay Bayindir remained the trusted starter despite his serious mistake in the loss to Arsenal last week.
Speaking to Sky Sports, coach Ruben Amorim said: “We try to anticipate what will happen during the game. The team needs stability in controlling the match, while also having options to change the game from the bench. Sesko has only trained with us for two weeks, he is still trying to grasp everything. We need to be a bit more patient to support him. The whole team's goal is to win and help all players develop.”
With this explanation, the Portuguese coach showed he wants to protect the expensive new signing from early pressure, while relying on the experience of familiar players to maintain stability for MU.
Another notable detail is Amorim’s continued choice of goalkeeper Altay Bayindir over Andre Onana. Previously, Bayindir made a serious error that led to a goal against Arsenal. Nevertheless, Amorim still placed his trust in the Turkish keeper for the Fulham match, a decision that surprised many experts and fans.
After facing Fulham, Manchester United will enter a busy schedule. They will play Grimsby Town in the second round of the League Cup midweek before returning to the Premier League to host Burnley at Old Trafford. This could be an opportunity for Benjamin Sesko to start and prove the value of this summer’s blockbuster signing.