Joshua Zirkzee’s stint at Manchester United is at a crossroads merely six months after his £36 million move from Bologna. The Dutch striker, who made the switch in July following an impressive Serie A season, has found it difficult to replicate his previous form at Old Trafford. While at Bologna, Zirkzee scored 12 goals in 37 appearances, playing an instrumental role in securing the club’s Champions League qualification under Thiago Motta’s guidance.
His transfer to United was driven by former manager Erik ten Hag, who envisioned Zirkzee as a key addition to the attack, competing with Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford. However, the managerial change at United has complicated matters for Zirkzee. Ruben Amorim, who succeeded ten Hag, has introduced a 3-4-3 system that emphasizes versatility and decision-making—areas where Zirkzee has struggled to adapt, leaving him on the fringes of the squad.
Speculation about Zirkzee’s future is mounting, with Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that Juventus may provide a lifeline in January. The Italian giants, now managed by Thiago Motta, are reportedly considering a loan deal to reunite with the striker. Motta is keen to restore Zirkzee’s confidence and capitalize on their previously successful partnership.
Zirkzee’s struggles have been evident in recent matches. During United’s narrow 2-1 victory over Ipswich Town in the Premier League, Rashford took the central role and scored early, while Zirkzee came off the bench in the 68th minute but failed to make a meaningful impact. In the Europa League match against Bodo/Glimt, Højlund shone with two goals, including the winner, while Zirkzee remained an unused substitute, underscoring his diminishing role.
This season, Zirkzee has managed only one full match, scoring just once in 18 appearances across all competitions. Amorim has publicly called for the striker to improve, particularly in his positioning and decision-making during offensive plays. Speaking to Sky Sports, Amorim remarked that decision-making at this level should be instinctive, adding that Zirkzee must position himself in the box during attacking plays to capitalize on opportunities.
A loan move to Juventus could provide Zirkzee with the chance to rediscover his form in a familiar system designed to suit his strengths. Thiago Motta’s coaching style, which previously brought out the best in Zirkzee, could be key to reigniting the striker’s confidence and productivity.
For Manchester United, however, allowing Zirkzee to leave could create a gap in their attacking options, particularly given the physical and tactical demands of the season. The club faces a tough decision in balancing their squad depth with the player’s development needs.
As the January transfer window approaches, Zirkzee finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. Whether he chooses to fight for his place at United or seeks a fresh start with Juventus, his next move will likely shape the trajectory of his career and influence United’s tactical plans for the remainder of the season.
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