Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar has weighed in on Monday's disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Leeds United, suggesting manager Michael Carrick made a crucial error in his team selection. The former goalkeeper believes starting striker Benjamin Sesko was a misstep that contributed to a frustrating night at Old Trafford.

The match got off to a nightmare start for the Red Devils, with Leeds' Noah Okafor netting a first-half brace to stun a United side returning from a 24-day break. The situation deteriorated further when defender Lisandro Martinez received a controversial red card for pulling an opponent's hair during an aerial challenge.

Despite being a man down, United showed fighting spirit. A brilliant Bruno Fernandes delivery found Casemiro, who powered home a header to give the home crowd hope. The ten men pushed for an equalizer, but were denied by heroic goal-line clearances and a stunning save from Leeds keeper Karl Darlow to stop Sesko.

Post-match, Carrick's frustration was directed at the officials, questioning both the red card and the validity of Leeds' opening goal. However, the bigger tactical question surrounded the attack. Sesko, chosen ahead of Bryan Mbeumo, was largely isolated throughout the game as United's creative spark—a hallmark of Carrick's reign—fizzled out.

Van der Sar, analyzing the game for Premier League Productions, acknowledged Carrick's positive work integrating youth like Kobbie Mainoo but was critical of the frontline decision. "With Benjamin Sesko up front, I am not sure if that was the right option to go to," he stated, implying the team missed a different attacking dynamic.

The result marks only United's second loss under Carrick. Sesko, who has nine Premier League goals this season, will look to bounce back quickly as United face a tough test away at Chelsea this Saturday.