Ruben Amorim Explains Surprise Decision to Bench £74m Star Benjamin Sesko Again

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has opened up about his decision to leave summer signing Benjamin Sesko on the bench for the second game running, despite the striker’s huge £74 million ($100m) move from RB Leipzig.

Sesko, one of the most talked-about arrivals of the transfer window, started United’s Premier League campaign on the bench against Arsenal and only made a brief appearance as a substitute. Many fans expected him to be given a first start in Sunday’s trip to Fulham, but Amorim once again opted to keep faith with his existing lineup.

The Portuguese manager made just one change from the side that faced Arsenal, with Amad Diallo replacing Diogo Dalot at right wing-back. Mason Mount continued in an advanced role, leading the line alongside Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, leaving Sesko to wait for his full debut.

Speaking to Sky Sports before the game, Amorim explained why Sesko is still waiting for his big moment:

“We tried to imagine what is going to happen during the game. Our team needs to be consistent in the way we control matches, and we also need to have options on the bench to change things if needed. Sesko has only been with us for two weeks. He is learning, he is trying to understand everything, and we need to give him time. For now, the most important thing is to win games and help all of our players adapt.”

The comments suggest Amorim is eager not to rush Sesko into the deep end, especially with the player still adjusting to the pace and demands of English football.

Bayindir keeps his spot despite Arsenal blunder

If Sesko’s absence raised eyebrows, so too did Amorim’s decision to stick with goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. The Turkish shot-stopper endured a nightmare debut against Arsenal, where his mistake gifted the Gunners a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford. Many expected Andre Onana to return in goal against Fulham, but Amorim stood by Bayindir, showing faith in the 26-year-old.

The decision underlines the manager’s belief in stability, though it will be closely scrutinised given United’s need for results after a poor start.

United’s upcoming fixtures could finally present Sesko with his chance to impress. The Red Devils face Grimsby Town in the League Cup on Wednesday before returning to league action against Burnley at Old Trafford three days later. With the schedule beginning to pile up, Sesko may well be handed a start in at least one of those matches.

For now, though, the 21-year-old striker must remain patient. While fans are eager to see the exciting forward in action, Amorim is determined to manage his integration carefully.

Given United’s hefty investment, Sesko will inevitably be under pressure to deliver quickly once he is trusted with a starting role. Last season at RB Leipzig, he netted 14 goals in all competitions and earned a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young strikers. Supporters at Old Trafford will be hoping it’s only a matter of time before he shows that same talent in England.

Amorim finds himself in a tricky position. On one hand, he needs immediate results to silence early doubts after United’s opening-day defeat. On the other, he knows that rushing new signings like Sesko could harm their confidence and long-term development.

His cautious approach might frustrate fans eager for excitement, but it reflects a manager who is planning beyond just the next game. Whether that patience pays off could depend on how soon Sesko starts scoring in a United shirt.