Rio Ferdinand’s words about strikers carry some weight, due to his experience facing many elite forwards during his outstanding centre-back career.
Manchester United’s attack looks far stronger this year. The club had become a bit of a punchline, struggling to find the net consistently in the 2024/25 season. But, by the time the new season kicks off, there should be real quality leading their attack.
United have already added Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, two proven forwards in the league, and are closing in on a third signing to complete their new-look front line, as Benjamin Sesko appears set to be that final piece.
The Slovenian striker chose the Red Devils over Newcastle United. Now he is expected to travel to Manchester as talks between United and RB Leipzig progress.
Rio Ferdinand shares thoughts on Benjamin Sesko’s move to Manchester United
With Sesko’s arrival at Old Trafford looking more and more likely, Rio Ferdinand has weighed in on what the 22-year-old forward could bring to the side.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former defender spoke about Sesko and why he believes defenders will be worried about facing him.
“He’s a young kid, but he’s been at Leipzig where he’s playing and scoring goals. Last season, he played 45 games and scored 21 goals and six assists, so the guy knows where the back of the net is.
“Yes it’s a different league, it’s the Bundesliga, but he does play international football and scores in international football, he knows where the net is.
“A lot of people are going to say ‘has he got the experience?’, I was one of those guys in that camp asking ‘where is a player who can show the young, inexperienced strikers we have at the club how to do things?’
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“In times of need who do they look to, he is going to have to step up and be that guy, can he do it? Yes he can do it, he’s got huge potential.
“As a defender, I am looking and thinking differently about Manchester United’s frontline, I would be thinking, ‘I am going to have a physical presence up there, have a physical test from all three positions and players who can move, they are mobile.’”
Ferdinand doesn’t sound completely convinced just yet. With fans still sceptical after Rasmus Hojlund’s struggles last season, there are understandable concerns. But Sesko brings a stronger track record than Hojlund did when he arrived.
Benjamin Sesko’s physical attributes should suit the Premier League
Sesko is a sharp finisher who hasn’t always received full credit for his ability in front of goal, and his ball-striking skills have produced some standout moments.
But while his technique stands out, it’s Sesko’s physical presence that Ferdinand finds most promising.
Another part of his game that stands out is his vertical leap, which should help him win plenty of aerial duels. That could give United a new option with long balls into the box.
According to the Premier League website, Sesko was clocked at 35.7 km/h last season, just 1.5 km/h shy of the Bundesliga’s fastest player and quicker than many forwards in England.
He is not just quick. Standing at 6ft 4in and strong both on and off the ball, he has all the tools to trouble defenders in any league.
The Premier League has always favoured physical forwards, and while Sesko fits that mould already, he will need to keep developing his strength to maintain an edge over time.
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