Ferdinand worried about ‘isolated’ Sesko, doubts Man United Europe qualification
Rio Ferdinand has voiced concern over summer signing Benjamin Sesko following the club’s poor start to the Premier League season.
The Manchester United legend warns that European qualification could already be slipping away.
The Red Devils have collected just four points from their opening four matches, marking their worst start since the 1992/93 campaign.
A 3-0 derby defeat to Manchester City on Sunday further revealed their struggles, despite an investment of over £200m in the squad during the transfer window.
Sesko left isolated in attack
Ferdinand singled out £74m striker Sesko for particular concern after his lack of involvement at the Etihad Stadium. Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the former United captain said:
“The one I’m worried about is Sesko. He ain’t getting no chances man, he ain’t getting no opportunities, there’s nothing created for him. That’s the concern.
“A new striker comes in the football club, gets in the team, you’ve got to think about creating chances for him.”
Statistically, the 22-year-old endured a frustrating evening. He registered 20 touches, none inside the penalty area, and completed just eight of 14 attempted passes.
His average position placed him deeper than teammates Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte.
Concerns over Amorim’s approach
Beyond Sesko’s struggles, Ferdinand criticised United’s overall lack of creativity, arguing that the team looked “weak” and “powderpuff” against City. He admitted that without Fernandes, the side appears devoid of consistent attacking inspiration.
The result has intensified about manager Ruben Amorim, who continues to maintain his preferred 3-4-3 formation despite pressure to change.
United have collected fewer points than any of the Premier League’s ever-present clubs since the Portuguese coach took charge, and his win percentage is the lowest of any post-war United boss.
Club icons Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt have also urged Amorim to adjust his approach, but the 40-year-old insists he will remain committed to his philosophy.
Meanwhile, Ferdinand believes expectations must be tempered.
“If I sit here now and you ask me, ‘where will Man United finish?’, I would say probably sixth or seventh, I would be happy with it this season. That’s looking like a long shot at this moment in time.”
