Ruben Amorim Told He Already Has the Perfect Replacement for Benjamin Sesko at Manchester United

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has been advised by former United forward Dwight Yorke that he already has the perfect replacement for the injured Benjamin Sesko within his squad. The 20-year-old striker’s injury, sustained during United’s dramatic 2-2 draw with Tottenham, left the club in a state of uncertainty as concerns over a potentially severe knee issue surfaced.

After the match, Amorim confirmed that Sesko’s injury was concerning, particularly due to its location in the knee. The Red Devils’ manager admitted he was unsure about the full extent of the damage, stressing the importance of Sesko’s recovery to the team. Fortunately, following extensive scans by United’s medical staff, it was confirmed that no major ligament damage had occurred, offering a sense of relief. While Sesko will be sidelined for about a month, this is a relatively positive outcome considering the initial fears of a long-term injury.

Early Panic Turns to Measured Optimism

The injury occurred after Sesko had been introduced in the second half, only to be forced off shortly after a heavy challenge. The Slovenian striker collapsed to the ground and immediately signalled for medical assistance. With all substitutions already used, United had to finish the match with 10 players, leaving many anxious about the future of their marquee summer signing.

However, the subsequent medical reports have brought some relief, as it seems Sesko’s return to action is not as far off as initially feared. According to Sky Sports, the striker is expected to miss no more than a month, allowing Amorim to start planning for his absence without the worst-case scenario materializing.

Zirkzee Left as the Lone Senior Striker

With Sesko out, the immediate question for Amorim is who will step into the starting role. Currently, Joshua Zirkzee is the only natural centre-forward available to the Portuguese manager. This leaves United with the prospect of tactical reshuffles or the need to explore emergency cover, but Yorke believes the answer lies within United’s own youth ranks, rather than rushing to sign a stopgap option.

Dwight Yorke Urges Amorim to Invest in Youth

Dwight Yorke, speaking with Snabbare, urged Amorim not to panic or resort to short-term signings, stressing that Manchester United’s history is full of examples of failed moves for “makeshift” forwards. Instead, Yorke advocates for a focus on youth development and giving younger players a chance to step up in these moments.

“I think Amorim has got to invest in the young players and bring some fresh talent through if Sesko is out injured,” Yorke said. “If you’re going to bring in a makeshift option, it hasn’t worked for United in the past. This club is too big for players who aren’t the right fit. I’d understand if United were firing on all cylinders, but when things aren’t going so great, a short-term fix is not the answer.”

Yorke further emphasized that when United are struggling, it’s crucial to avoid panicking and signing players who might not offer the long-term value needed. Instead, he pointed to United’s successful track record with youth, insisting that the under-23 players should always be considered when the first team faces an injury crisis.

Chido Obi: The Answer to Amorim’s Striker Woes?

One name that Yorke has singled out for a potential opportunity is Chido Obi, a young Nigerian-born striker who joined United from Arsenal in 2024. Obi made seven Premier League appearances last season and is now part of the under-23 setup. Yorke believes that giving Obi a chance in the first team could provide the spark United need during Sesko’s absence.

“What about Chido Obi?” Yorke questioned. “I know the first-team squad is big, but you’ve got to get these young players around the team so they are ready for situations like this. When I was at United, the youngsters trained with us, got game time, and that helped them get up to speed. If Obi’s good enough to be at United, he should be given the chance to prove himself.”

Yorke’s comments echo the club’s long-standing philosophy of developing homegrown talent and promoting youth players when needed. Historically, United has been a club where young players have been given opportunities, and Yorke believes Obi could be the next in line for a breakthrough.

When Will Sesko Return?

Manchester United will return to Premier League action on November 24 with a match against Everton. Sesko, however, will miss this game as he continues his rehabilitation. If his recovery stays on track, Sesko could potentially return to action in December. United’s December fixtures include a trip to Aston Villa on December 21 and a Boxing Day clash with Newcastle at Old Trafford, both of which could mark the Slovenian’s return to the squad.