Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has shared his genuine assessment of Benjamin Sesko's recent performances, praising the young forward's rising confidence and significant impact as a substitute for the Red Devils.
Sesko's Slow Start and Remarkable Turnaround
Benjamin Sesko, who joined Manchester United from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2025 for a substantial fee of £74 million, initially struggled to adapt to life at Old Trafford. Goals proved elusive in the early stages of his tenure, leading to concerns about his ability to justify the hefty investment.
However, since the beginning of 2026, Sesko has undergone a dramatic transformation. The Slovenian international has found his scoring touch, becoming a pivotal asset for the team under manager Michael Carrick. His improved form has been instrumental in United's push for a top-four finish and a return to the Champions League after a two-year absence.
Impressive Goal-Scoring Form
Sesko's resurgence is highlighted by an impressive tally of eight goals in his last eleven appearances across all competitions. This prolific run has elevated his season total to ten goals, making him the joint-top scorer at the club alongside fellow summer signing Bryan Mbeumo.
Notably, many of these crucial contributions have come despite limited playing time, with Sesko excelling in the role of a super-sub. His ability to make an immediate impact off the bench has been a key factor in several important victories.
Match-Winning Contributions as a Substitute
The 22-year-old striker has demonstrated a knack for scoring decisive goals in tight matches. Sesko came off the bench to net winners against Fulham and Everton, while also providing a stoppage-time equaliser in a challenging away fixture at West Ham.
More recently, he scored the winning goal against Crystal Palace and made a significant impact as a substitute in a victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford. These performances have solidified his reputation as a reliable and threatening option from the bench.
Berbatov's Insight on Sesko's Development
In an interview on the Inside Carrington podcast, Dimitar Berbatov expressed his admiration for Sesko's progress. The Bulgarian legend emphasised the connection between goal-scoring and confidence, noting that Sesko is gradually building both attributes.
"He has all the qualities right now, everything in this moment is working well with him," Berbatov stated. "I hope it continues in this way. I think, right now, things are getting good for him and things are working out slowly for him. But I prefer it like this."
Berbatov further elaborated on the psychological advantage Sesko now brings to the team, regardless of whether he starts or enters as a substitute.
"I want him to slowly, but surely, get that confidence, get the goals, which they are both connected. When you get the goals, you get confidence," he explained. "He is finding his position into the team but, even if he is on the bench, the sign of him coming onto the pitch now brings that threat and that fear factor in the opposition and it brings the goals."
The former United star added a pragmatic note on Sesko's goal-scoring methods, saying, "It's very good, seeing him getting off the bench, sometimes scoring goals. Starting and scoring goals. To be honest, I don't care what type of goals he scores, as long as the ball hits the back of the net."
Managerial Perspective and Future Outlook
Manager Michael Carrick has also acknowledged Sesko's development, noting that the striker has been "building that belief and confidence" as he continues to be utilised both as a starter and an impact substitute. This flexible approach has allowed Sesko to thrive without the pressure of being a constant starter, while still contributing significantly to the team's success.
As Manchester United aim to secure Champions League qualification, Sesko's form will be crucial. His ability to change games from the bench provides Carrick with a valuable tactical option, and his growing confidence suggests he could play an even more prominent role in the future.
