Gary Neville Criticizes Manchester United’s £74m Signing and Questions Tactical Decisions

Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has expressed concerns about Benjamín Sesko’s performance, describing the £74 million signing as “nowhere near up to speed” following United’s 1-1 draw with Fulham.

Neville highlighted the pressure on the club to start Sesko, who joined from RB Leipzig to strengthen Ruben Amorim’s attacking options this season. Despite the enthusiasm to see him in action immediately, the 22-year-old was only brought on as a substitute, similar to his appearance in the previous Premier League game against Arsenal.

Accentuating the issue, Neville pointed out that during the second half, Fulham grew stronger after substitutions, while United appeared to weaken. He commented, “Sesko is not yet fit or effective enough,” emphasizing the need for more game time to develop his match fitness.

Neville also criticized Amorim’s tactical changes. He found particularly strange the late substitution of key defenders Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw, suggesting it was unwise to alter the defensive backline so close to the end of the match.

He stressed the importance of giving Sesko 90 minutes in upcoming games, especially against Burnley next Saturday, to help him settle and reach peak fitness. Neville noted that without consistent play, the player’s value and development could be compromised, especially with Mason Mount’s presence competing for similar minutes.

Manchester United is still without its first league win of the season after their draw with Fulham and a previous loss to Arsenal. The team will aim to secure their first victory in their next fixture, a Carabao Cup match against Grimsby Town, before returning to Premier League action at Old Trafford against Burnley.

Critics argue that increasing game time for new signings like Sesko is crucial for their integration and performance on the pitch, but questions remain about tactical choices made during critical moments of the game.