Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko must learn to handle the criticism directed at him during his challenging start at Old Trafford, according to the Premier League club’s manager Ruben Amorim.
Sesko, who joined from RB Leipzig in August for a transfer fee of 76.5 million euros ($89.21 million) with an additional 8.5 million in bonuses, has scored just two goals in 11 appearances for United.
Commenting on Sesko’s performance, Amorim told reporters, “I’m relaxed – he’s not relaxed… If you don’t perform every week, you will hear a lot from club legends, pundits, and the media. Sometimes they are right.”
The Portuguese manager, speaking ahead of a league match against Tottenham Hotspur, added, “It’s challenging for a young player to maintain confidence while understanding that criticism is normal, especially for someone who wants to control everything. He won’t control everything.”
Amorim emphasised that Sesko is seen as a long-term striker for United, acknowledging that he will face struggles and setbacks, which are typical in football.
Following the 2-2 draw at Nottingham Forest last week, former United player and pundit Gary Neville described Sesko as looking “awkward” on the ball, unfavourably comparing him to the club’s other recent signings.
“Nobody likes to hear criticism, but Sesko struggled, and that’s a fact. So, let’s embrace that,” Amorim continued. “Neville’s comments aren’t personal. I try to explain to the players that it’s not personal; it’s an opinion that can change in weeks.”
Amorim advised Sesko to get used to the criticism, stating, “It’s part of the process, and we will support and protect Ben because he works hard, and we want him to succeed.”
United, currently eighth in the standings, will face sixth-placed Tottenham later on Saturday.
