Benjamin Sesko is a Slovenian professional footballer who has taken Europe by storm with his powerful play and relentless ambition. Born in 2003, he is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young strikers, now competing in the Premier League for Manchester United and representing Slovenia at the highest international level. This article offers a complete resource featuring life story, family, all-time stats, records, achievements, controversies, and recent updates, alongside FAQs for fans and researchers.
Early Life and Family
Benjamin Sesko was born on 31 May 2003 in Radeče, Slovenia, a small town where his football journey began. His father, Aleš Šeško, was a well-known goalkeeper for a local club and played a formative role in Benjamin’s early development by introducing him to football from a very young age. Sesko’s mother, Slađana Lazić, and his sister, Zala Seško, also contributed to a supportive environment.
Despite modest resources, Sesko’s family fostered his passion, taking him to matches and encouraging him to join local clubs. Their commitment was crucial in a town with limited youth facilities and competition. Sesko is currently in a relationship with Anita Vidovic.
Youth Career and Development
Benjamin Sesko started his football journey at NK Radeče before joining clubs like Rudar Trbovlje and Domžale. His prodigious talent shone early—during the 2017-18 season, he scored 59 goals in 23 matches for the under-15s team. This remarkable record earned the attention of scouts from top European academies and paved his way to Red Bull Salzburg in Austria when he was just 16.
Professional Career
FC Liefering (2019–2021)
Upon moving to Red Bull Salzburg, Sesko was loaned to their feeder team, FC Liefering, where he netted 22 goals in 44 appearances, a clear indication of his scoring prowess at a young age.
Red Bull Salzburg (2021–2023)
Regarded as one of Austria’s most promising forwards, Benjamin Sesko made his debut for Red Bull Salzburg in January 2021. Over two-and-a-half seasons, he won three Austrian Bundesliga titles and an Austrian Cup, contributing 21 goals in 55 league appearances.
RB Leipzig (2023–2025)
Benjamin Sesko joined German side RB Leipzig in July 2023, signing a contract through 2028. He registered 39 goals and 8 assists in 87 games with the club, achieving a DFL-Supercup victory and earning comparisons to Erling Haaland for his physicality and goal-scoring ability.
Manchester United (2025–Present)
Transferred in August 2025 for a reported fee of £74 million, Sesko joined Manchester United to much fanfare and expectation. As of September 2025, he has made several appearances but has yet to fully establish himself as the starting centre-forward.
Playing Style
Benjamin Sesko is a tall (1.96 m), athletic striker known for speed, aerial ability, and technical finesse. His style combines classic number 9 movement, great with headers, and clinical finishes, with modern skills like link-up play and pressing. His relentless work ethic and sharp football IQ allow him to create and convert chances efficiently.
International Career
Benjamin Sesko rose through the Slovenian youth ranks, debuting for the senior team in 2021 at just 18. He is Slovenia’s youngest-ever senior debutant and goalscorer. To date, Sesko has earned 43 caps and scored 16 international goals, often contributing vital strikes in qualifiers and Nations League matches.
Honours and Achievements
- 3× Austrian Bundesliga champion with Red Bull Salzburg (2021–2023)
- Austrian Cup winner (2022)
- DFL-Supercup champion with RB Leipzig (2023)
- Slovenian Footballer of the Year (2022)
- Slovenian Youth Footballer of the Year (2021, 2022, 2023)
Club and International Stats
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Major Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| FC Liefering | 44 | 22 | Prolific loan spell |
| Red Bull Salzburg | 55 | 21 | Domestic domination |
| RB Leipzig | 87 | 39 | Consistent Bundesliga force |
| Manchester United | 5 | 0 | Premier League debut season |
| Slovenia (National) | 43 | 16 | Youngest national goalscorer |
Benjamin Sesko has played more than 248 official matches with 100 career goals and 23 assists, most notably in the Bundesliga for RB Leipzig.
Recent News and Controversies
Transfer Saga
Benjamin Sesko’s move to Manchester United in August 2025 was highly debated, following an extended period of speculation around his destination. Arsenal reportedly pulled out of negotiations, citing high wage demands and a substantial release clause. United completed the transfer, with fans and pundits expressing mixed feelings about the fee.
Premier League Debut and Criticism
Early months at Manchester United have been marked by limited game time under manager Ruben Amorim. Rio Ferdinand and other club legends have voiced concerns that Sesko is not being utilised effectively, calling on the team to capitalise on his physical presence up front. After his first start in the Manchester derby, fans criticised his performance as “anonymous,” sparking debates over his adjustment to English football.
Records and Milestones
- Youngest player and youngest goalscorer for the Slovenian national team (18 years, 4 months, 8 days)
- Longest scoring streak for RB Leipzig: seven goals in seven spring 2024 games
- 59 goals in 23 matches during a youth season (NK Radeče U-15)
- 100 professional career goals as of 2025, 23 assists
Playing Style Comparison Table
| Attribute | Sesko | Erling Haaland | Harry Kane |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height (m) | 1.96 | 1.94 | 1.88 |
| Pace | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Physical Strength | High | High | Moderate |
| Finishing | Precise | Clinical | Clinical |
| Aerial Ability | Outstanding | Outstanding | Very Good |
| Link-up Play | Developing | Solid | Excellent |
FAQs About Benjamin Sesko
Who is Benjamin Sesko’s family?
Benjamin Sesko’s father, Aleš, was a local football goalkeeper. His mother is Slađana Lazić, and he has a sister named Zala. He has been in a relationship with Anita Vidovic.
What are Sesko’s career stats?
Benjamin Sesko boasts 100 goals and 23 assists over 248 professional matches, spanning Austria, Germany, England, and international games for Slovenia.
What are Sesko’s biggest achievements?
Benjamin Sesko has won three Austrian Bundesliga titles, an Austrian Cup, and the DFL-Supercup. He was named Slovenian Footballer of the Year in 2022 and is the youngest scorer for Slovenia.
Which clubs has Sesko played for?
His journey includes FC Liefering, Red Bull Salzburg, RB Leipzig, and Manchester United, plus international representation for Slovenia.
Are there any controversies around Sesko?
The most notable controversy was his high-profile transfer in 2025, plus critiques about his fit at Manchester United and an uneven Premier League debut, attracting debate over his value.
How is Sesko performing at Manchester United?
He has made a few appearances, mostly as a substitute, and is under scrutiny for his adjustment to the Premier League, with fans and commentators urging more opportunities for his development.
What is Sesko’s international impact?
He debuted for Slovenia’s senior team at age 18 and set records for the youngest player and goalscorer. He now has 16 international goals in 43 caps.
What is his style of play?
Benjamin Sesko is renowned for his height, strength, and finishing, drawing comparisons to Erling Haaland for his physical dominance and attacking instincts.
