Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko has become weary of the constant comparisons to Erling Haaland. These comparisons are inevitable, given their similar physical attributes and career trajectories. Both players stand at an imposing 6-foot-4 and made their mark in Austrian club Salzburg before securing moves to German clubs. Sesko recently joined Salzburg’s sister club, Leipzig, while Haaland moved from Salzburg to Borussia Dortmund in 2020 before his transfer to Manchester City. In an online call with journalists, Sesko expressed his desire to be recognized as his own player and emphasized the differences in their playing styles.
Despite the ongoing comparisons, Sesko is determined to establish his own identity on the football pitch. The 20-year-old forward showcased his talent by scoring two goals in Leipzig’s 3-0 victory against Union Berlin on September 3, ending the home team’s 24-game unbeaten run in the Bundesliga. Furthermore, Sesko secured Leipzig’s winning start in the Champions League with a decisive goal against Young Boys. As fate would have it, Leipzig’s next opponent in the competition is Manchester City, providing another opportunity for comparisons between Sesko and Haaland. However, Sesko remains grounded and acknowledges that it is challenging to compare himself to one of the world’s best players.
Sesko’s early performances suggest that he is indeed his own player, standing out with his goal-scoring ability. The Slovenian international has already netted seven goals in 22 appearances for his country and demonstrated his playmaking skills by assisting in two goals during Slovenia’s 4-2 victory over Northern Ireland in the European Championship qualifying match on September 7. In the 2020-2021 season, Sesko scored an impressive 16 goals in the Austrian league. Sesko attributes his inspiration to Zlatan Ibrahimović, another towering striker who showcased his talent at some of Europe’s top clubs. Sesko admires Ibrahimović’s ability to enjoy himself on the pitch and hopes to emulate his style of play.
Despite reported interest from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Sesko made the decision to join Leipzig. The Slovenian forward believes that Leipzig offered him the best opportunity for his development as a player. The transfer reportedly cost Leipzig €24 million ($25.5 million). Sesko spent an additional season at Salzburg before making the move to Leipzig in the summer. The German club has started the season strong with four wins from five Bundesliga games, positioning themselves as one of Bayern Munich’s closest rivals. Leipzig had previously defeated Bayern 3-0 in the German Super Cup but faces an uphill battle to secure their first Bundesliga title, as Bayern aims for a 12th consecutive league triumph.
Sesko remains optimistic about Leipzig’s chances of challenging Bayern Munich’s dominance in the Bundesliga. The team has already clinched the last two German Cup titles, illustrating their potential to compete with Germany’s elite. However, Sesko acknowledges the demanding nature of the league, with fixtures taking place every third or fourth day. To be successful, the team must consistently perform at their best and continue to secure victories. The upcoming clash against Bayern Munich will undoubtedly serve as a crucial test of Leipzig’s aspirations and potential.
Benjamin Sesko is determined to establish his own legacy in football, distinguishing himself from the shadows of Haaland comparisons. With impressive performances under his belt and an unwavering mindset, the Slovenian forward is ready to showcase his unique style of play and contribute to Leipzig’s pursuit of success in both domestic and European competitions.
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