Manchester United's high-profile summer signing Benjamin Sesko has come under fierce criticism from Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, who has starkly compared the £74m striker to an 'academy player' following his difficult start to life at Old Trafford.
A Struggling Start for United's Record Signing
The Slovenian international completed his big-money move from RB Leipzig during the summer transfer window but has managed to find the net just twice in 12 appearances for the Red Devils. Sesko's challenging adaptation to English football has now been compounded by an injury that will keep him sidelined until at least mid-December, ruling him out of crucial fixtures against Everton, Crystal Palace, West Ham, Wolves and Bournemouth.
Fowler, speaking to Adventure Gamers, didn't hold back when asked to compare Sesko with Viktor Gyokeres - another striker heavily linked with both United and Arsenal before ultimately joining the North London club. "For me I think the obvious one is Gyokeres," Fowler explained. "He's probably better suited to the Premier League and he understands what is needed in terms of speed, energy and commitment."
Fowler's Damning Assessment
The former England striker delivered his particularly brutal assessment of Sesko's performances thus far, while attempting to soften the blow by acknowledging the player's underlying ability. "Whereas Sesko has probably struggled a little at times. He looks a little bit, I hope this doesn't come across wrong, but he looks a bit of an academy player," Fowler stated.
He continued: "I have no doubt he's a good player. No one's questioning his ability, but at the minute I think out of those two it's Gyokeres by far who looks better equipped."
Shearer Joins the Criticism
Fowler isn't alone in his criticism of the struggling forward. Premier League record goalscorer Alan Shearer has also expressed significant concerns about Sesko's start at United, particularly given the substantial transfer fee involved.
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer commented: "One player that must do better for United is Benjamin Sesko. They paid 70 odd million for him. That was a lot of money, I know it's the market but it was too much. He's had a tough start and I don't expect huge things from him to be honest."
Shearer added: "I think he's a good player but I'm not sure he's any more than that. He should have scored a couple more goals than he has so far. It's been a tough start for him, especially considering the money United paid."
The timing of Sesko's injury presents a significant challenge for manager Ruben Amorim, who must now rely on alternative striking options including Joshua Zirkzee and Chido Obi during a busy period of Premier League fixtures. United currently sit seventh in the table but will be looking to maintain their recent five-game unbeaten run without their record signing.
