Joshua Zirkzee faces end at Man United already as Ruben Amorim decision looms
Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Man United will be in the spotlight straight away as Ruben Amorim arrives as the new manager.
The Dutch forward has struggled since his summer transfer from Bologna, managing just one goal in 17 appearances and falling out of favor, having started only four Premier League matches.
Amorim, who left Sporting Lisbon to succeed Erik ten Hag, steps into his new role with the immediate goal of addressing Zirkzee’s underperformance.
According to The Mirror, dealing with the “£40million flop” will be the Portuguese’s first task at Old Trafford.
The forward’s struggles have drawn criticism, with pundits questioning his quality at the top level. Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy remained unbeaten in his brief stint but also failed to get the best out of Zirkzee.
Zirkzee’s plight extends to international duty, as Dutch manager Ronald Koeman excluded him from a Nations League qualifier, citing the player’s poor club form. Despite initial hopes that a move to United would elevate Zirkzee’s career, his inability to settle has raised doubts about his long-term future at the club.
Viktor Gyökeres at Man United over Joshua Zirkzee?
Football Insider opinion
Viktor Gyökeres is in scintillating form for Sporting Lisbon, netting 16 goals in 11 Liga Portugal matches and delivering a standout hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.
That form has generated “serious interest” from United in reuniting him with his former manager in Manchester, according to The Standard.
The Swedish strikers red-hot streak under Amorim highlights his reliability in high-pressure situations, a trait United sorely need.
In contrast, Zirkzee has struggled for consistency, with his £40 million price tag increasingly seen as a burden. Reviving his form will be a project, whereas Gyökeres is already performing at a world-class level.
Gyökeres is a dynamic, all-action forward whose pace, strength, and off-the-ball movement make him an ideal fit for Amorim’s pressing style. He thrives in transitional play and is a menace in one-on-one situations, frequently unsettling defenses with his physicality and directness.
Zirkzee, while technically gifted and effective in hold-up play, lacks Gyökeres’ explosiveness and ability to stretch defenses, potentially limiting United’s options in attack.
In summary, while both strikers have their merits, the Swede’s current form, style of play, and proven ability to thrive under Amorim’s guidance suggest he could offer Manchester United a more immediate and effective solution than the struggling Zirkzee.
The Dutchman has seen the manager who signed him sacked and if he is unable to respond to the new boss’ arrival he may not be long for the club.
In other news, Marcus Rashford has been told what he must do to stay at the club.
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