Benjamin Sesko has given Michael Carrick a major Manchester United selection decision ahead of Sunday’s derby against Manchester City.
Sesko scored on his first start of the season as United began their Champions League campaign with a comfortable 4-0 victory over Sabah at Old Trafford.
The striker rounded goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov after Bryan Mbeumo released him behind the Sabah defence, putting United 3-0 ahead before half-time.
It means Sesko has now scored in successive Manchester United appearances after also finding the net from the bench against Everton.
Benjamin Šeško™️ pic.twitter.com/9jKGe3CRme
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) September 10, 2026
Benjamin Sesko pushes for Man City start
Sesko’s return to full fitness has been carefully managed after a shin injury kept him out of pre-season.
Carrick said before the Sabah game that the striker was getting close to starting, and Sesko responded immediately when given his opportunity.
ReadManUtd’s predicted XI against Sabah backed Sesko to receive that chance.
He took it.
The Guardian’s match report noted that Sesko never looked likely to miss after breaking clear and going around the goalkeeper.
Carrick then withdrew him after 64 minutes, potentially leaving the forward relatively fresh for Sunday’s derby.
That creates an intriguing decision.
Matheus Cunha has largely operated through the middle during Sesko’s absence and also scored against Sabah.
But former United striker Teddy Sheringham has already urged Carrick to give Sesko more opportunities, arguing that his presence gives United a natural focal point.
Sesko is now making that argument himself.
Two goals in two games do not guarantee him a place against City, but Carrick must decide whether this is the moment to restore his recognised number nine.
ReadManUtd’s new Man Utd vs Man City TV channel and live stream guide has all the details ahead of Sunday’s 4:30pm BST kick-off.
Michael Carrick has perfect attacking headache ahead of Manchester Derby
Michael Carrick has perfect attacking headache ahead of Manchester Derby
Manchester United News & Talking Points: Mbeumo, Sesko, Giggs and More
Manchester United News & Talking Points: Mbeumo, Sesko, Giggs and More