Ange Postecoglou’s single-word quip left Arsenal red-faced ahead of Benjamin Sesko’s move to Manchester United.

Former Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou once jokingly called Benjamin Sesko “smart” for rejecting Arsenal’s advances last year. The Gunners had tracked the striker—now unveiled as Manchester United’s new £74 million signing—for months before moving on to other targets. Mikel Arteta eventually addressed his striker needs by landing Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP for £64 million, after considering options like Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Sesko.

Sesko, 22, will now lead Ruben Amorim’s front line in the upcoming Premier League campaign. During Euro 2024, ahead of Slovenia’s match with England, Postecoglou praised the forward’s decision to remain at RB Leipzig for another year, saying: “I think a big club would have signed him this year, but staying put was smart. He’s still developing, but he has great qualities for a striker.” When ITV presenter Mark Pougatch teased him about implying it was smart not to join Arsenal, Postecoglou smirked and said, “No comment,” drawing laughter from Gary Neville, Ian Wright, and Roy Keane.

Arsenal were believed to be ready to trigger Sesko’s £55 million release clause last summer before he signed a new contract. Interest resurfaced in January and again this summer, but the higher valuation deterred them, leading to Gyökeres’ arrival instead.

United capitalised, securing Sesko and presenting him to fans before a pre-season game against Fiorentina. The Slovenian explained why he chose Old Trafford over Arsenal and Newcastle—despite the latter offering more money—saying: “United’s history is special, but the future excites me even more. The project shows this team can compete for top honours soon. From the moment I arrived, I felt the family atmosphere and positive energy. It’s the perfect place to reach my full potential. I’m eager to learn from Ruben [Amorim] and work with my team-mates to achieve success together.”