Amorim hints at Sesko debut against Arsenal

Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, has dropped a strong hint that £74m signing Benjamin Sesko could start in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford.

Sesko, 21, joined from RB Leipzig last week in what was United’s biggest deal of the summer. The towering 6ft 4in Slovenian arrived alongside £62.5m Matheus Cunha and £71m Bryan Mbeumo as part of a major attacking overhaul.

Unlike Cunha and Mbeumo, who took part in United’s pre-season tour of the United States, Sesko has had only a week of training with his new teammates. But Amorim insists the striker’s physical and mental readiness means he could lead the line immediately.

“We have not had a lot of time, but he’s ready,” Amorim told reporters on Friday. “Physically, he’s in great shape and he’s very smart. He asks questions, he’s always thinking. He spends all afternoon here working on his fitness. We’ll see if he starts.”

The United boss described Sesko as a long-term investment who can adapt to different styles of football. “The Premier League is aggressive, he will learn, but he has great potential. I can see Ben being our striker for many years – that’s why we paid so much.”

Amorim also confirmed Joshua Zirkzee and goalkeeper Andre Onana are fit to face Arsenal. Rasmus Hojlund, linked with Fulham and AC Milan, was left unused in the final pre-season friendly against Fiorentina, but Amorim is unlikely to go without a recognised No. 9 this weekend.