LIVE
...

Follow us on

News

Benjamin Sesko explains what he has that Viktor Gyokeres lacks ahead of Arsenal vs Man United

Add as preferred source on Google

New Manchester United signing Benjamin Sesko was a striker on Arsenal’s radar before they went for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres.

And vice versa. United had keen interest in Gyokeres thanks to the Swede working with him under Ruben Amorim in Portugal.

Alas, Gyokeres chose Arsenal, and Sesko was no longer needed at the Emirates. Instead, the Slovenian chose Manchester over Tyneside, becoming Amorim’s fourth signing of the summer.

United take on Arsenal this Sunday in a blockbuster Premier League opening weekend fixture – where the strikers may face off.

New Manchester United signing Benjamin Sesko poses with a team shirt prior to the pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and ACF Fiorentina at Old Trafford
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images

The pair will cause plenty of debate, which is why it’s interesting that Sesko has already outlined in his first United interview a trait that he is significantly better at than Gyokeres.

Benjamin Sesko outlines his strength in the air

During his first interview as a United player, Sesko was asked to name his three best attributes – with heading being one of particular note.

“Speed, power, kicking, and heading,” Sesko replied.

“I’m kind of the guy who is ready to attack, to be in front, if there is space behind to run into,” Sesko told MUTV.

“Of course, if there are crosses, it’s always going to be nice. I’m always going to be there, and I think that is what is important.”

United have struggled to score from crosses, or headers in general, so they’ll be delighted about the 22-year-old’s abilities. He’s already been showcasing his talents in United training.

Manchester United Training Session
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images

Gyokeres, on the other hand, needs to prove himself in that department.

Viktor Gyokeres struggles with headers

Despite Gyokeres scoring with a header on his debut, he has had a terrible record with his head in Portugal.

A similarity Gyokeres shares with Thierry Henry. The 27-year-old has scored just four times with his head for Sporting across 102 appearances in the Liga Portuguesa.

Viktor Gyokeres being presented by Arsenal
Photo by Apinya Rittipo/Getty Images

Of course, it doesn’t really matter, but with a player like Bukayo Saka, who arguably has the best delivery in the Premier League, and a new signing like Martin Zubimendi who is a magician with his feet, it is a desirable characteristic.

The two face off on Sunday – will any headers be scored?