Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces mounting pressure from the Slovenian media after selecting Matheus Cunha as a central number nine ahead of Benjamin Sesko, though the club boss hinted the striker could start the upcoming European fixture. According to reports relayed by The Daily Mail, the tactical decision has sparked fierce backlash abroad following a 2-2 Premier League draw against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Slovenian Media Backlash Over Carrick’s Tactical Choices
The debate intensified after Cunha started upfront against Everton last weekend. The Brazil international, who is not a natural striker, failed to score during the match, recording zero shots on target, zero assists, and zero dribbles, while losing the ball 11 times and failing every aerial duel according to data cited by the website Ekipa. The performance prompted widespread fan frustration.
Slovenian television channel 24ur Sport questioned the manager’s approach, asking, “Is Sesko a victim of the coach’s system?” Ekipa further reported that fans are firmly against Carrick’s insistence on utilizing the Brazilian forward while keeping Sesko on the bench. Supporters have voiced demands that the 23-year-old Slovenia international must start from the first minute.
Sesko Fitness Update and Champions League Outlook
Benjamin Sesko has made three substitute appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring once after replacing Cunha in the 70th minute against Everton to secure a late equaliser in the 88th minute. The forward suffered a shin injury against Liverpool toward the end of last season and missed the entire pre-season campaign.
Carrick noted that Sesko has only completed about three weeks of full, unrestricted training since his April layoff.
Ahead of Manchester United’s Champions League fixture against Sabah at Old Trafford, Carrick addressed the player’s readiness. According to the club manager, Sesko is gradually regaining his match rhythm. “Yeah, Ben’s close,” Carrick said. “He’s obviously getting closer and closer. He missed a lot, you know. It was the end of April, really, and Liverpool, his last game of the season, in May.”
Carrick added that the coaching staff carefully managed the striker’s rehabilitation. “He’s in a good place, Ben. Yeah, he’ll be part of each and every game, you know, and it’s just a case of when he takes that next step,” Carrick stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals has Benjamin Sesko scored this season?
Sesko has scored one goal in three Premier League substitute appearances for Manchester United this campaign.
Why has Matheus Cunha faced criticism?
According to reports in the Slovenian media, Cunha has failed to score as a deployed number nine, recording zero shots on target and losing multiple duels during the recent draw against Everton.
When is Manchester United’s next match?
Manchester United face Sabah at Old Trafford in the Champions League.
What are your thoughts on Carrick’s tactical lineup? Should Benjamin Sesko lead the attack against Sabah? Join the conversation in the comments below, explore our latest Manchester United updates, and subscribe to our newsletter for daily football analysis.
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