Wayne Rooney leaps to defence of unfairly criticised United star who’s unlocked three teammates

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has swung to the defence of striker Benjamin Sesko, stressing that he has received some unfair criticism despite a promising start to life at the club. Sesko adapting to life at United Having joined United in the summer from RB Leipzig in a big-money deal, Sesko is still getting used to his new surroundings. While it remains abundantly clear that he still has plenty to work on, he has demonstrated very encouraging signs of his sky-high potential and the player he can eventually develop into. Sesko has netted two goals and provided as many assists for United in 11 Premier League appearances. Beyond his stats, his overall performances have been impressive. In particular, his ball retention and link-up play have stood out. Yet, despite this, Sesko has still found himself on the receiving end of criticism from some sections of the fanbase and even the media. Last week, former United defender Gary Neville said that the Slovenian looks miles off it at the moment. Sesko’s underwhelming substitute appearance against Tottenham Hotspur over the weekend – marred by missed chances and cut short by a knee injury – has only fueled the growing scrutiny surrounding the young striker. However, Rooney has leapt to his defence, arguing that the 22-year-old will come good. Rooney also named Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo as three teammates that Sekso has unlocked. Rooney gives Sesko verdict Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate, Rooney said, “He’s going through a bit of a tough time in terms of goals scored. I think the goalkeeper has come in and done well, he’s been more direct in to Sesko, but what we are seeing now is he can compete, he does hold the ball up better than Hojlund does.” “We are seeing as the ball is going up to him, Mbeumo, Cunha, Mount making runs in behind.” “Because they know he will compete and he will win flick-ons and he will do that.” Rooney continued, “So I think he has been better than what people [are] maybe suggesting, but I still think he needs to just get the ball, get hold of it, lay it off and get in the box and hope that the chances are created for him. I think he has been OK and will come good.” Sesko’s injury is not thought to be serious, although he withdrew from international duty with Slovenia. Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!