Rio Ferdinand confessed his concerns about Benjamin Sesco’s modest start at Manchester United after watching the club’s new centre-forward struggle in the Manchester Derby on Sunday. The 22-year-old Sesco was the Red Devils’ most important summer signature, taking part in a deal worth £73.7 million from RB Leipzig. Despite being brought to lead United’s improved offense, fans saw their new No. 9 very little in action.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t a memorable match for United or Sesco, as the strikers failed to make a big impact in a game where they beat United 3-0. Reuben Amorim’s team has entered a new season after the worst Premier League campaign ever, marking a lack of goals. Over £200 million has been invested in strengthening the offensive lineup, but Ferdinand is troubled by the fact that Sesco has few opportunities in the Derby.
In his Rio Ferdinand, the former United and British defender stated:
“That’s the concern. You have to think about a new striker coming to the football club, getting into the team and creating opportunities for him. You have to think about taking him to the end of things.
“That’s something I think I’ll have to look and fix it right away. I don’t want to think about what it is.” United’s inactive offense was not impressed by the “weak” performance of his old club, with City dominating the game and leaving former player Ferdinand behind.
“It’s depressing to see United like that,” Ferdinand continued. “The way we allowed them to participate, achieve their goals and get opportunities – it was weak, powder puffs, lacking anything.
“I was in the first half, we pushed them very well, and we owned at times (but) we were the last third, and we were zero creativity. But there’s no real sin.”
United’s tragic four-point start from four opening league games is the worst since the 1992-93 season. Based on his current form, Ferdinand admits that a top six finish is unlikely.
He added: “If I sit here now and ask, ‘Where will Man United finish?’, maybe the sixth or seventh time, I’ll be happy with it this season. It looks like a long shot of this moment. ”
