Joshua Zirkzee’s €36.5 million move from Bologna to Manchester United in the summer of 2024 was met with high expectations. After a brilliant season in Serie A, where his creativity and skill earned him a place in the Team of the Year, Zirkzee was expected to bring something special to Old Trafford.
However, halfway through the season, the Dutch forward has yet to hit the heights many hoped for, with questions swirling around his suitability for United's system.
The Bologna Magic
Zirkzee was a revelation at Bologna, where under Thiago Motta, he was free to roam and express his unique footballing talent. His role wasn’t confined to just scoring goals; he was a creator, dropping deep and linking play, much like a traditional No. 10.
His dazzling moments included a stunning backheel assist to Sam Beukema in a Coppa Italia match against Inter — proof of his skill and creativity. Bologna fans cherished him because he was the centre of their offence.
Tactical Struggles at United
At Manchester United, however, Zirkzee’s transition hasn’t been smooth. The Premier League’s fast-paced, physical style is a tough adjustment for a player more accustomed to having the freedom to drift and create.
His lack of tactical discipline in a rigid system under Ten Hag, combined with questions about his fitness and attitude, has led to criticism. Unlike at Bologna, Zirkzee hasn’t had the same freedom, and his role as a traditional striker hasn’t allowed him to showcase his full potential.
The Ghost of Bayern Munich
Zirkzee’s struggles aren’t new. At Bayern Munich, his inconsistency and lack of discipline led to doubts about his ability to succeed at the highest level. Despite flashes of brilliance, his critics were never far behind.
Former Bayern manager Hansi Flick famously warned that talent alone wouldn’t be enough. These questions about his mentality have followed Zirkzee, contributing to the scepticism surrounding his potential at United.
A Fresh Start Under Amorim?
With the arrival of Ruben Amorim as manager, Zirkzee may finally have the opportunity to flourish in a system that plays to his strengths. Amorim is known for nurturing attacking talent, and there’s hope that Zirkzee will be used as a more fluid, creative forward — much like he was at Bologna.
Zirkzee has shown glimpses of his old form, such as his brace against Everton at Old Trafford, and with a manager, who believes in him, he could still carve out a role that suits his unique style.
Zirkzee’s Path to Redemption
For Zirkzee, the challenge now is to redefine his role at Manchester United. The forward has always excelled in creating space for others and making key passes, but his potential as a traditional striker has been less clear.
Under Amorim’s guidance, there is hope he can find his rhythm and prove that his best moments are yet to come. With the right system and trust from his manager, Zirkzee has the chance to silence his critics and rekindle the magic that made him a Serie A standout.
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