Benjamin Sesko has revealed his Manchester United idol, in his unmissable signing interview, which is available to watch now.
As our first 6ft 5in striker since Zlatan Ibrahimovic, it may come as no surprise that Sesko draws inspiration from our one-time ‘Swedish hero’.
Legendary forward Ibrahimovic spent two seasons at United in the twilight of his career, and proved himself on the English stage, scoring 29 goals in 53 United appearances. That helped form part of a fine career across seven countries, during which Zlatan’s character, as much as his ability, inspired those watching across the world, Sesko included.
“He’s been my role model since I’ve been small,”
Sesko explained in his signing interview, conducted at the freshly renovated Carrington.
“I've been watching him, like every single YouTube video that I can find, because he's just amazing for me, you know.”
It’s the playing style of Zlatan — who now holds an advisory role at another of his former clubs, AC Milan — which inspires Sesko, rather than his unique character off the pitch.
“We don't have the same, let's say, character,”
Benjamin told interviewer Zarah Connolly.
“But I like to see him, the way he plays, the way he enjoys football, because that's when all the joy comes, you know. If you enjoy football, then everything works. And I think this is the most important.
“It's probably also one of the parts that just makes me love him so much, you know what I mean? So maybe one day to meet him, that would be great. He's my idol.”
Now ready to pull on the same famous red shirt as Ibrahimovic at Old Trafford, Sesko has already tried to incorporate parts of Zlatan’s game, but has also been inspired by other Reds heroes.
“Of course, I try to take some stuff from him,” he said.
“Especially like some similarities with the high kicks and power strikes. For me, there's [also] Robin van Persie, Wayne Rooney, all those kind of guys. I've also been watching them, of course, on the videos. They've been great, of course, you can admire them a lot and I try to also show myself in a good light here and try to help the team, try to help club to be as high as possible.
“I'm kind of the guy that is ready to attack, to be in front, if there is a space behind to run it over. Of course, if there are crosses, it's always going to be nice, I'm always going to be there and I think that's also what is important and also what Man United need.”
Watch Sesko’s full signing interview and get to know our new striker now.