2024-06-16 Poland v Netherlands - Group D - UEFA EURO, EM, Europameisterschaft,Fussball 2024 HAMBURG, GERMANY - JUNE 16: Joshua Zirkzee of the Netherlands during the Group D - UEFA EURO 2024 match between Poland and Netherlands at Volksparkstadion on June 16, 2024 in Hamburg, Germany. Photo by Peter Lous/BSR Agency Hamburg Germany Content not available for redistribution in The Netherlands directly or indirectly through any third parties. Copyright: xBSRxAgencyx
Manchester United’s recent transfer strategy has drawn considerable criticism, and Joshua Zirkzee’s situation is a notable example of the club’s missteps. Signed after a standout season at Bologna, the Dutch striker’s promising start at Old Trafford quickly faltered, and he now finds himself relegated to the fringes, despite scoring on his debut. Zirkzee’s struggle to adapt to the Premier League’s high intensity highlights potential flaws in United’s scouting and recruitment approach, especially as the club undergoes a period of transition.
Ruben Amorim’s Influence and Zirkzee’s Future
Under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, United’s leadership is shifting, with reports suggesting the Portuguese manager has no plans to build his system around Zirkzee. Amorim, who is overseeing a tactical overhaul at Old Trafford, is reportedly eager to move Zirkzee on when the January transfer window opens. His lack of confidence in the striker’s ability to adjust to United’s style signals that Zirkzee’s time at the club may be nearing an end.
What was initially seen as a potential fresh start under Amorim now appears to have been little more than a temporary “smokescreen.” Zirkzee’s inability to handle the pace and physicality of the Premier League has likely sealed his fate, as he struggles to make an impact on the pitch.
Aston Villa and European Interest
In an unexpected twist, Premier League side Aston Villa has reportedly shown interest in signing Zirkzee, offering him a chance to continue his English adventure. However, sources suggest that the 23-year-old is unlikely to stay in the Premier League, given his lackluster performances and inability to impress fans or pundits alike. His slow, non-physical style of play has been widely criticized, with Fabio Capello remarking, “In Italy, he did what he wanted; in England, he doesn’t even have time to think before the ball is taken from him.”
A return to Italy, where Zirkzee previously enjoyed success with Bologna, now seems the most probable outcome. Juventus, led by former Bologna coach Thiago Motta, are reportedly interested, with other Serie A clubs like Napoli, Inter Milan, and AC Milan also linked with the striker. Zirkzee’s proven ability in Italy, where he scored 12 goals and contributed seven assists, makes a Serie A move seem like the best opportunity for him to revive his career.
Could Portugal Be an Option?
Another possibility is a move to Portugal, with Sporting CP thought to be monitoring Zirkzee’s situation. Amorim’s former club could see the Dutch striker as a potential replacement for Viktor Gyökeres, who is expected to attract significant attention in the next transfer windows. Though this is speculative, it reflects the variety of options available to Zirkzee outside the Premier League.
The Factors Behind Zirkzee’s United Struggles
Zirkzee’s failure to make an impact at United can be attributed to multiple factors. Despite his imposing 6ft 4in frame, he has struggled with the physical demands of the Premier League. His inability to win duels, both in the air and on the ground, has been a significant weakness, particularly highlighted during United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool, where he failed to win a single duel out of ten.
Moreover, Zirkzee’s self-identified role as a “9.5” has not meshed well with United’s tactical setup. His lack of a clinical edge in front of goal is evident, as he has missed four clear-cut chances this season. While he has demonstrated technical ability and decent link-up play at times, these flashes have been too infrequent to make a lasting impact.
United’s Transfer Focus Beyond Zirkzee
Zirkzee’s likely departure is part of a broader squad overhaul underway at Manchester United. Reports suggest United is monitoring Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, a versatile forward who has flourished in Serie A. Lookman is expected to be a summer target, while United could move for Atalanta’s Ederson in January to strengthen their midfield options.
Additionally, Amorim’s strong endorsement of Mason Mount indicates that the manager has faith in certain players. Mount, whom Amorim has expressed deep admiration for, could play key roles in United’s evolving system, signaling that while some players, like Zirkzee, may be on their way out, others are being given opportunities to thrive.
A Missed Opportunity or a Cautionary Tale?
For United fans, Zirkzee’s time at Old Trafford is seen as a missed opportunity and a cause for concern regarding the club’s recruitment process. The striker’s failure to adapt to the Premier League raises questions about whether he was ever the right fit for the team. Was his signing a case of chasing potential without fully considering how his skills would translate to the demanding nature of English football?
Zirkzee’s struggles serve as a cautionary tale for United, highlighting the risks of signing players based on promise rather than assessing how they will fit within the club’s tactical and physical requirements. His technical ability is evident, but his lack of physicality and struggle to adjust to the Premier League’s pace have ultimately held him back.
On a more positive note, interest from clubs such as Juventus and Napoli suggests that Zirkzee’s career is far from over. A return to Serie A could offer him the chance to regain his confidence and rediscover the form that made him a sought-after prospect in the first place. For Manchester United fans, the hope is that lessons will be learned from this experience, ensuring that future transfers are more attuned to the challenges of the Premier League.
