Why Benjamin Šeško isn't starting for Man United vs Everton — why Carrick must weigh a change
Michael Carrick confirmed that Benjamin Šeško was named on the bench for the trip to Everton despite the striker's rich recent form, saying there is "more to come" as he continues to manage the player's development. Sesko has been influential from the bench in recent matches, but Carrick again opted to start without a conventional striker for the Hill Dickinson Stadium fixture.
Benjamin Šeško's recent form and role off the bench
Benjamin Šeško has scored five goals in his last six appearances in all competitions and has delivered late, decisive contributions when introduced as a substitute. That finishing ability has turned games around — most notably a late equaliser that rescued a point in a recent away match. Carrick describes the forward as "ready" and "a real threat" while stressing the need to manage a young player who is still adapting to life at the club.
Why Carrick's selection approach keeps Šeško on the bench
Carrick's selection pattern since taking charge has trended towards continuity. In the matches referenced by team analysis, he made only one enforced change to his starting XIs: a switch forced by injury when a first-choice forward suffered a lengthy hamstring problem. That injury opened the door for Matheus Cunha to step into the line-up, and Cunha has contributed goals and assists while filling that role.
For the Everton match, Carrick again opted to deploy Bryan Mbeumo or Matheus Cunha as the nominal lead in attack rather than start with Šeško. The manager framed the decision around development and squad balance, noting that having Šeško as a high-quality option off the bench has been a useful formula so far.
Arguments for change and what comes next
There are clear arguments pushing for Šeško to be promoted to the starting XI. His recent goal run and ability to impact games late make a compelling case, and some observers point to earlier matches where an earlier introduction might have changed outcomes. The premium paid for the forward amplifies those expectations and intensifies debate about whether his contributions are being maximised when he starts from the bench.
On the other hand, Carrick's stated priority is careful management of a young striker who is still adapting. The manager has praised Šeško's progress and underlined that he expects further development. That balance — between rewarding form and protecting long-term growth — explains why the manager has so far favoured continuity in his starting selections.
Immediate implications and uncertainty
For now, Šeško remains a potent bench option whose recent scoring sequence cannot be ignored. The manager's approach suggests any change to the starting XI will be measured rather than abrupt. Injury notes in the squad also influence selection: one centre-back absence removed a defensive option from the matchday group and is expected to return to training later in the week, though fitness for subsequent fixtures remains unclear.
Recent updates indicate Carrick values both the current winning template and the need to nurture Šeško's development; details may evolve as the schedule continues and squad fitness changes.
