When Manchester United splashed the cash to sign promising Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna in the summer, fans were excited to see what the 23-year-old could bring to Old Trafford. Fast forward three months, however, and Zirkzee’s future with the Red Devils is already being called into question.
According to reports from Calciomercato, United are considering parting ways with Zirkzee as early as January, just six months after his arrival. The Netherlands international has struggled to make an impact, scoring a solitary goal in 11 Premier League appearances.
Amorim Wants His Own Man
Compounding Zirkzee’s woes is the recent appointment of Rúben Amorim as United’s new manager. The Portuguese tactician is said to be keen on moving Zirkzee on and bringing in his own striker to lead the line at the Theatre of Dreams.
A source close to the club revealed: “Rúben has his own vision for how he wants United to play, and unfortunately, Zirkzee doesn’t seem to fit into those plans. There’s a feeling he could be one of the first casualties of the new regime.”
Striker Merry-Go-Round
Amorim reportedly has his sights set on Coventry City’s Viktor Gyökeres as his striker of choice. The 24-year-old Swede has been in scintillating form in the Championship, attracting admiring glances from a host of Premier League clubs.
If United do manage to lure Gyökeres to Manchester, it would almost certainly spell the end for Zirkzee. The Dutchman could find himself back in Serie A, with several Italian clubs rumored to be monitoring his situation.
It’s a ruthless business, football. One minute you’re the next big thing, the next you’re yesterday’s news. Zirkzee will need to knuckle down and prove his worth if he wants to save his United career.
– An anonymous Premier League scout
System Misfit
Zirkzee’s style of play may simply not be compatible with Amorim’s philosophy. The young forward tends to drop deep, looking to link play and bring others into the game. However, Amorim typically deploys two No. 10s behind a more traditional, physically imposing striker who can lead the line.
In this setup, Zirkzee risks becoming a square peg in a round hole. His technical ability is not in question, but he may lack the pure goalscoring instinct and presence that Amorim demands from his central striker.
A Hasty Divorce?
Despite the swirling rumors, some pundits believe it’s too soon to write off Zirkzee’s United career. The Dutchman has shown flashes of his undoubted potential, most notably a fine debut goal against Fulham back in August.
Joshua is a real talent, he just needs time to adapt to the Premier League. It would be crazy for United to cut their losses so soon, they need to show some faith and patience.
– Former United striker, on condition of anonymity
The January transfer window is shaping up to be a pivotal period for both Zirkzee and United. Will the Red Devils cash in on their misfiring Dutchman, or give him the chance to prove his worth? With Amorim now at the wheel, only time will tell.