Sesko saves Fletcher from defeat
Manchester United’s new era under Darren Fletcher began with tension rather than celebration, as a chaotic draw against Burnley highlighted both attacking promise and familiar frustrations.
Despite controlling large stretches of the game and overwhelming the hosts with pressure, United left Turf Moor with only a point to show for their dominance.
A nightmare start for United
The visitors were behind almost as soon as the match began. An early own goal from Ayden Heaven gifted Burnley the lead and immediately shifted the atmosphere inside the stadium.
Burnley retreated deep after the opener, allowing United to monopolise possession while looking to break forward selectively. United created chance after chance but initially lacked precision in the final third.
Read also: Stephen A. Smith explodes over Minneapolis shooting
According to Premier League match data, United registered more than 30 shots over the course of the game, a figure that reflected their territorial control but also their inefficiency.
Sesko changes the tone
United’s pressure finally paid off just before halftime. Benjamin Sesko powered home an equaliser that steadied the visitors and marked the first goal scored under Fletcher’s leadership.
Burnley briefly reclaimed the advantage early in the second half when Jaidon Anthony struck from distance, a goal that came despite limited sustained pressure from the home side.
United responded with urgency once again. Sesko found space inside the box on the hour mark and finished confidently to complete his brace and restore parity for a second time.
Read also: Arsenal’s No.9 dilemma puts Gyokeres in the spotlight against Liverpool
Insight from the touchline
Fletcher later revealed how closely he had worked with Sesko in the buildup to the match. Speaking in comments shared by the X fan account FrankEra_, Fletcher explained his approach.
“I sat down with him yesterday and showed him videos of his movement and how the opportunities are going to come. He was FANTASTIC tonight.”
United continued to push late on, with teenage substitute Shea Lacey injecting pace and unpredictability. One late opening nearly delivered a winner as Burnley struggled to contain the pressure.
Young talent draws attention
Lacey’s cameo did not go unnoticed. Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart praised the teenager in comments posted on social media.
Read also: Hawks plotting a bold reset
“Tell you what, he's a player. He reminds me of Phil Foden the way he moves.”
The comparison underlined the growing belief around United’s emerging talent, even as the team continues to search for consistency.
Squad news adds perspective
The match also came amid encouraging developments off the pitch. According to football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes both returned to the squad after injury absences.
Their availability added experience to a lineup balancing senior figures with youth, a theme that appeared central to Fletcher’s early approach.
Read also: An unlikely talisman: Rodrygo’s revival at Real Madrid
While the result stopped short of a winning start, the performance offered a revealing snapshot of a side playing with freedom, risk and attacking intent under new leadership.
Sources: Premier League, Fabrizio Romano, X fan accounts
