Gyokeres’ explosive style could transform Arsenal’s attack, while Sesko’s aerial dominance may finally solve Man Utd’s set-piece woes
Šeško vs Gyökeres ⚔️
The Premier League is delivering already 😅🔥 pic.twitter.com/lCveHSOOvK
— LiveScore (@livescore) August 17, 2025
The Battle of the New No.9s
The Premier League’s opening weekend delivers an instant classic as Manchester United host Arsenal at Old Trafford, but the real storyline revolves around two men: Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres.
Both strikers were heavily linked with opposite clubs before sealing their moves—Gyokeres joining Arsenal for £63m, while Sesko opted for United in a £55m deal. Now, they go head-to-head in a match that could set the tone for their Premier League careers.
Gyokeres: Arsenal’s Missing Piece?
Arsenal’s struggles last season were clear—too much possession, not enough cutting edge. Mikel Arteta’s side dominated games but lacked a ruthless finisher. Enter Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish powerhouse who scored 54 goals in 52 games under Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP.
Why he fits Arsenal:
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Explosive ball-carrying: Gyokeres loves driving at defenders, particularly down the left, which could unlock Martinelli and Saka.
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Direct threat: Arsenal’s pre-season has shown a shift toward quicker transitions—perfect for Gyokeres’ style.
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Proven mentality: Unlike Sesko, who hesitated over competition with Havertz, Gyokeres demanded the No.14 shirt and backed himself to lead the line.
“He’s going to adapt really well to England,” said Amorim, who now manages United. “But we’re focused on the team, not just one player.”
Sesko: Man Utd’s Aerial Solution?
While Gyokeres is the finished product, Sesko represents potential. At just 21, the Slovenian has already shown flashes of brilliance at RB Leipzig, with his 6’5” frame offering a different dimension to United’s attack.
Why he fits United:
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Aerial dominance: United scored just four headed goals last season—Sesko’s height could change that.
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Room to grow: Unlike Gyokeres (27), Sesko has time to develop under Amorim’s system.
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Bundesliga pedigree: Playing in a stronger league than Portugal’s Primeira Liga, Sesko has faced tougher defences.
“Sesko has a higher ceiling,” argued one analyst. “Gyokeres is in his prime now, but Sesko could be unstoppable in three years.”
Tactical Impact: Who Will Shine?
For Arsenal:
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Gyokeres’ movement will force United’s backline deeper, creating space for Ødegaard and Saka.
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His ability to receive progressive passes (ranked 1st in Portugal) suits Arteta’s system.
For United:
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Sesko’s presence means more crosses from Dalot and Shaw—something United underutilized last term.
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His link-up play with Fernandes could be crucial in breaking Arsenal’s high line.
The Mindset Factor
One key difference? Attitude.
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Gyokeres pushed for the move, embracing the pressure of leading Arsenal’s title charge.
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Sesko reportedly feared competing with Havertz at Arsenal, opting for United instead.
“I’d take Gyokeres over Sesko any day,” said former Chelsea winger Joe Cole. “He’s the one who excites me more.”
Prediction: Who Scores More Today – Gyokeres or Sesko?
The Manchester United vs. Arsenal clash will be a massive test for both Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres, but if we’re predicting who is more likely to score, the edge goes to Gyokeres. Here’s why:
1. Form & Confidence
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Gyokeres is coming off a 54-goal season and has looked sharp in pre-season.
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Sesko is still adapting to United’s system, while Gyokeres fits Arsenal’s direct style perfectly.
2. Tactical Advantage
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Arsenal’s midfield (Ødegaard, Rice, Havertz) will feed Gyokeres quickly in transition—his biggest strength.
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United’s build-up play is still developing under Amorim, meaning Sesko may get fewer clear chances.
3. Big-Game Mentality
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Gyokeres has thrived under pressure (see his Sporting performances in Europe).
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Sesko, while talented, is still young and may take time to adjust to the Premier League’s intensity.
4. Defensive Matchup
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United’s backline (likely Martínez & De Ligt) is strong but can be exposed by aggressive runners like Gyokeres.
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Arsenal’s defense (Saliba & Gabriel) is more settled and better at handling physical strikers like Sesko.
Final Verdict: Gyokeres More Likely to Score
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Gyokeres (60%) – Better service, proven form, and Arsenal’s attacking system suits him.
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Sesko (40%) – Has the talent but may need time to gel with United’s new-look attack.
Predicted Scoreline: Arsenal 2-1 Man Utd (Gyokeres to score, Sesko with a late chance).