Manchester United signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in July 2024 for a fee reported at £36.5 million. He was signed on a five-year deal. He arrived with strong credentials. Zirkzee had11 league goals for Bologna and was youthful potential.
At the time, statements were full of optimism. Joshua had described the move as a “privilege” and aimed to win trophies with the club.
Zirkzee : Struggles and Changing Priorities
Flash forward to the 2025/26 campaign and the landscape has altered. Zirkzee has fought for playing time under boss Ruben Amorim. He is currently behind new recruits like Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo in the hierarchy. Reports suggest Amorim has “decided” that he is not in his long-term vision and United will entertain offers in January.
Zirkzee himself is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time and his place in the Dutch national team is under threat because of it.
What This Means for United and Zirkzee
This situation signals a couple of key shifts for United:
- Transfer strategy reset: The club spent significant money on attackers but now appears ready to cut losses and reallocate funds.
- Squad direction: Amorim’s preference for other forwards suggests a pivot in the way United want to attack and build the squad.
- Player patience: For Zirkzee, the lesson is harsh — even big transfers do not guarantee loyalty or opportunity in this era.
Author’s Insight
What once looked like a marquee signing is now set for exit. The Zirkzee move highlights how quickly things shift in elite football: from hope to repositioning. For United, cutting ties might be wise — putting resources where they believe they will deliver. For him, the coming months will be a test of choice. He has to either leave to revive his career or stay and fight for a place. Either way, this chapter is nearing a close.
As featured on ManUNews.com
