Benjamin Sesko says Manchester United’s big win provides confidence before Manchester derby

Benjamin Sesko says Manchester United’s emphatic victory over Azerbaijan’s Sabah has given the team a significant confidence boost ahead of their Premier League meeting with Manchester City.

Manchester United began their first Champions League campaign under the new league-phase format with a 4-0 win over Sabah. Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, Sesko and Lisandro Martinez scored the goals.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Sesko said the result had been particularly important for the club’s supporters.

“I think it was perfect for everyone, especially our fans,” he said. “It means a lot to them, particularly when they see so many goals. Overall, I think it was a great game for us and gave us an extra boost and greater motivation for the matches ahead.”

The Slovenia striker scored after capitalising on Sabah goalkeeper’s decision to rush out of his goal.

“I saw the goalkeeper coming quickly out of his goal, and it was a great opportunity to win the ball from him and make scoring a little easier,” Sesko said. “Of course, I am happy to have scored my goal.”

He added: “I think it is important that everyone is able to score goals, and I hope this happens in many more matches.”

The victory came before Manchester United’s Premier League derby against Manchester City, and Sesko believes the result can help the side prepare for that fixture.

“Of course, I think the confidence boost is very significant,” he said. “It is important that we get a good rest and recover, then focus on the derby match.”

The win was Manchester United’s first in their first Champions League appearance under the competition’s new format. Their previous Champions League participation came in 2023-2024, when the tournament operated under its former system.

Fernandes has also continued to strengthen his record in major European competitions. Since making his Manchester United debut in 2020, he has been the highest-scoring and most prolific assisting midfielder among players in those competitions, with 23 goals and 21 assists.