Revealed: Why Manchester United Chose Benjamin Sesko Over Viktor Gyokeres

Manchester United’s new era under Ruben Amorim continues to take shape, and one of the biggest early decisions of the summer was choosing Benjamin Sesko over former Amorim favourite Viktor Gyokeres. Now, new reports reveal exactly why the Red Devils went all-in for the Slovenian forward despite Gyokeres blossoming into one of the Premier League’s most efficient scorers at Arsenal.

Why Sesko Was The Chosen One

According to The Mirror and The Times, United analysed both forwards in detail but ultimately moved for Sesko because their data-driven recruitment model rated him as the better long-term fit for:

• United’s style of play

• Amorim’s tactical system

• The future of the club’s attacking structure

The key factor?
Running data.

Under their new Director of Data, Mike Sansoni—formerly of Mercedes Formula 1—United have invested heavily in performance analytics. Sesko’s physical profile, pressing intensity, off-the-ball movement, and long-term athletic potential placed him ahead of Gyokeres in the model.

United did see Gyokeres as a strong option, especially given his success under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon. But the club wanted a striker who could grow into the Premier League for the next decade—not just explode immediately.

Sesko’s Start: Slow But Expected

Sesko’s numbers at United so far:

• 2 Premier League goals

• Moments of brilliance, but inconsistent minutes

• Currently recovering from injury

It’s not the explosive entrance many hoped for, but the club insists there is no panic, especially after he cost £74 million.

His history shows why patience is required:

• 39 goals in two seasons at RB Leipzig

• 13 Bundesliga goals last season

• Proven impact in the Champions League

• A track record of improving year after year

Amorim has publicly backed him, calling Sesko a “control freak” who wants to perfect every detail—something that can lead to short-term frustration but long-term excellence.

Gyokeres Thriving… But Still Not The Wrong Call

Gyokeres, now at Arsenal, has started strongly with:

• 4 Premier League goals

• 6 goals in all competitions

He was sensational at Sporting under Amorim and looked like a natural link. But United believe that Sesko’s ceiling is higher, especially in terms of:

• Adaptability

• Athletic profile

• Pressing style

• Longevity in the Premier League

Under the new INEOS-era structure, data outweighs emotion—and Sesko came out on top.

Amorim Stands Firm

Speaking on Sesko’s adaptation period, Amorim said:

“I’m relaxed. He’s not relaxed. He’s young, he’s going to struggle, and that is normal. But he will be our striker for the long term.”

It’s a message of reassurance for United fans: the project is long-term, the recruitment is calculated, and Sesko is central to it.