Benjamin Sesko bemoans Manchester United’s impending loss of Casemiro

Benjamin Sesko has said Casemiro will be a big loss for Manchester United next season given the influence of the “working machine” on and off the pitch at Old Trafford.

Casemiro produced another commanding display for Michael Carrick’s team on Monday when a 2-1 win over Brentford left United needing two points to secure Champions League qualification. Casemiro has announced he is leaving United after four years this summer and Carrick confirmed after the game that the decision will not be reversed.

Sesko, who scored his 10th Premier League goal of the season on Monday, admitted teams need a player with Casemiro’s qualities and it will be sad to see the veteran midfielder go.

“He’s a working machine,” said Sesko. “He’s experienced and what he’s putting on the pitch is unbelievable. You need someone like this. Unfortunately he’s leaving, but we are pleased that we can manage him until the last minute in the game and we’re going to use him.”

The Slovenia international credited Casemiro with maintaining standards off the pitch and believes the example he sets for younger players will also be missed. “The way you look at him, it’s very important, you know?,” said Sesko. “It would be stupid if you didn’t look at him and try to be like him when it comes to the work rate and stuff. I think everyone is pleased that he is here. Unfortunately he leaves but it’s important to keep him up like this [until the end of the season].”

United have won nine of 13 Premier League games under Carrick – taking more points in that period than any other team – and enjoy an 11-point cushion in the race for Champions League qualification. Sesko claimed the interim manager has brought “a different energy” to the squad since replacing Ruben Amorim in January and has backed him to land the job on a permanent basis.

“He’s an amazing coach, I’ve said this many times,” said the 22-year-old. “He’s brought different energy. Also the way we’re doing in the training, it’s unbelievable. Of course I would like to have him here.”