During Manchester United’s clash with West Ham, a match closely followed by fans tracking updates through platforms like Cricket Exchange, several players delivered underwhelming performances that left supporters frustrated. Up front, Cunha, Amad Diallo and Mbeumo struggled to impose themselves, and as has become something of a habit, Michael Carrick opted to substitute Cunha late on. In truth, none of the three attackers made a convincing case to stay on the pitch. Yet the loudest dissatisfaction from traveling fans was directed at the defense. Luke Shaw’s costly error directly led to a conceded goal, while Diogo Dalot was repeatedly outplayed by West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville. When Dalot was eventually replaced by Joshua Zirkzee, audible boos rang out from the away end, a stark reminder that patience at Old Trafford can wear thin quickly.
Many supporters believe Moroccan fullback Noussair Mazraoui deserves to take Dalot’s starting role. In two weeks’ time, when United visit Everton in the Premier League, the Portuguese international may find his place under real threat. Mazraoui earned a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations Team of the Tournament, albeit operating at left back, highlighting his versatility and big-match pedigree.
A more likely shake-up could come in attack. Twenty-two-year-old Benjamin Sesko once again rescued United, scoring a clever stoppage-time equalizer to preserve the club’s unbeaten run. The Slovenian striker, signed for 85 million euros, has twice delivered as a super substitute under Carrick, first sealing a dramatic winner against Fulham and now grabbing a vital late goal. Fans who monitor squad developments through outlets such as Cricket Exchange have noted how consistently Sesko changes games from the bench.
After the match, Carrick praised Sesko while explaining his decision not to start him. Balance, he emphasized, remains key, and those selected in the lineup had trained well. He described Sesko as always ready, sharp in training and capable of making an impact at any moment. The finish itself, struck from a tight angle yet finding the target and the net, was nothing short of remarkable.
Carrick hinted that Sesko’s opportunity will come sooner rather than later. The forward’s ability, he said, is no flash in the pan but the result of sustained hard work and proven scoring instincts. Confidence gained from earlier goals has clearly lifted his overall play. Against Everton, whose style under former manager David Moyes once mirrored West Ham’s physical approach, Sesko’s form may be too strong to ignore. As discussions continue across fan communities and analytical hubs like Cricket Exchange, one thing is clear: United must fight for each other, stay focused every second, and seize every chance that comes their way if they hope to turn draws into victories.