One Manchester United star will be the player who unlocks Benjamin Šeško at Old Trafford, especially given how key he has become to Rúben Amorim.
Benjamin Šeško is yet to start a Premier League game for Manchester United, but he has shown glimpses of his unique skillset, especially his jumping, that earned him the name “Air Šeško” back in Germany.
In his only start for Rúben Amorim so far – against Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup – Šeško was a bright light in an otherwise disgraceful performance, but it’s clear that he will need time to settle into life in Manchester before becoming the starting centre forward.
Many fans and pundits have drawn comparisons between Šeško and Rasmus Hojlund, as they both joined United as young strikers, looking for their first big move after impressing in Europe.
Unlike how Erik ten Hag treated Hojlund, Amorim needs to ensure that he doesn’t pile pressure on Šeško. Luckily, the United manager has Joshua Zirkzee and Matheus Cunha as striker options if needed.
Shaw will unlock the best of Šeško
Luke Shaw was once a flying left-back who would run down the line at every opportunity, but his struggles with injuries have led him to a centre-back role under Amorim. But he has become a key player this season, starting every Premier League game.
Despite his change of position, Shaw will still be crucial in unlocking Šeško because he is the best crosser in the United squad. He often plays deep, looping balls into the box for the centre forward.
When Cristiano Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford, Shaw and the legendary No.7 combined frequently, notably for the winner against Atalanta in the Champions League.
Like Ronaldo, Šeško has an extraordinary leap and often beats the centre-back to a cross, especially if it’s a high, looping ball like Shaw often delivers.
While Šeško is still finding his feet, Shaw’s ability to find his head could prove vital in the start to his United career, as he could pick up goals from crosses before he scores with his feet.
Martínez could struggle when he returns
Before his injury, Lisandro Martínez was crucial to Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation as he was the only real left-footed option, with Shaw injured and Ayden Heaven yet to play.
However, if Shaw and Šeško have combined on numerous occasions before Martínez returns to full fitness, Amorim may find it difficult to drop Shaw from the starting side.
Martínez could move inside and play as the central centre-back, but that would leave Amorim with a very small side, as Yoro and Casemiro could be the only aerial threats on the pitch, if Šeško isn’t starting by that point.
Patrick Dorgu could find himself on the bench if Amorim decides to move Shaw higher up the pitch, but this is unlikely due to the ground coverage needed by the wing-backs.
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