After coming off the bench in United’s first two league games against Arsenal and Fulham, the £74 million forward was handed his full debut in the second-round clash against League Two outfit Grimsby Town. ..Continue Reading
Hoping to make a strong impression, Sesko watched his side fall behind 2-0 before the break, courtesy of goals from Charles Vernam and Tyrell Warren.
Manager Ruben Amorim responded by introducing Bruno Fernandes, Matthijs de Ligt, and Bryan Mbeumo at halftime. Mbeumo pulled one back, and Harry Maguire’s late header sent the match to penalties.
The shootout stretched to 26 kicks, with Mbeumo missing his second attempt off the crossbar, handing Grimsby a famous 12-11 win.
Matheus Cunha had earlier failed to convert a potential match-winner, with goalkeeper Christy Pym making a crucial save.
Sesko did score his penalty, but fans were puzzled by his position in the lineup—he was the 10th outfield player to step up, despite having a perfect record from the spot in his career. Only Andre Onana was behind him in the order.
The decision sparked debate, with Gabby Agbonlahor branding Sesko a “coward” for not taking more responsibility.
While no official reasoning has been offered, a previously recorded interview has shed light on Sesko’s mindset when it comes to shootouts.
In a video circulating on social media, the former RB Leipzig star was asked to pick between taking the last penalty and not taking one at all and replied, “The last penalty, take the responsibility”.
Sesko was handed his first start leading the attack, but found it difficult to make a meaningful impact. According to LiveScore data, he completed just 63.6% of his passes and surrendered possession on ten occasions.
Out of 11 attempted passes, the 22-year-old successfully delivered seven. He managed two shots on target, both of which were denied by goalkeeper Christy Pym.
Three additional attempts were blocked, and with limited support from midfield, Sesko cut a frustrated figure up front.
He and Manchester United will be eager to turn things around when they host Burnley at Old Trafford this Saturday, hoping to finally kickstart their campaign.
