Ruben Amorim Faces Challenge to Revive Joshua Zirkzee's Career at Manchester United
Joshua Zirkzee's arrival at Manchester United was met with optimism after his promising stint at Bologna, where he scored 12 goals last season, helping his team qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time. His £36.5 million transfer was seen as part of Erik ten Hag’s strategy to bolster United’s attacking options. But since making the move to Old Trafford, things have taken a downwards turn for the 23-year-old Dutch international.
Although Zirkzee opened his account with the winning goal on his Premier League debut against Fulham, his form has dramatically dipped since then. He has only managed to find the net once across 16 appearances, effectively losing his starting position amid mounting pressure.
Now, with the recent appointment of coach Ruben Amorim, fans are hopeful for a revival. Amorim, who is taking charge of his first training sessions at United, is aware of Zirkzee's struggles and is facing criticism over his lack of impact on the pitch. Reports suggest Amorim's mission may include rebuilding Zirkzee's shattered confidence and making him fit for top-level football.
"I know the reason and I have my opinion about it - but I don't want to share this at the moment," said Dutch coach Ronald Koeman, who left Zirkzee out of the matchday squad during the Netherlands’ convincing 4-0 victory over Hungary, citing the player's underwhelming form.
Further complicate matters, Zirkzee’s physical condition has also come under scrutiny, with some labeling him as overweight. The perception of his physical state alongside his underperformance has heightened the “unbearable pressure” he feels as he tries to adapt to life at Manchester United.
Internal reports have surfaced claiming United staff are increasingly concerned with Zirkzee's inability to settle. This sentiment is echoed by former Netherlands forward Wim Kieft, who expressed concern for the young player: "He was brought in by Erik ten Hag, but he hasn't scored much and seems to lack the quality needed for the top level." Kieft worries the change of management could hinder Zirkzee’s opportunities, stating, "If Ruben Amorim finds him ineffective, things will get really difficult for Zirkzee."
Meanwhile, there are no signs of Juventus backing off their interest, as they reportedly look at Zirkzee as a potential loan acquisition depending on the contract situation of their current striker, Dusan Vlahovic. Juventus would be open to bringing Zirkzee back to Italy, where he previously excelled. An offer could easily materialize if conditions align favorably for the Italian giants.
The pressure is definitely on Zirkzee to rediscover the form he had shown at Bologna, and with Amorim now at the helm, expectations are high for him to turn things around. The Portuguese manager not only aims to improve United's overall performance, sitting at 14th place with just four wins from 11 games, but also hopes to reinstate the effectiveness of key players like Zirkzee.
There is significant hope among United fans and staff alike as they watch to see if Amorim can reignite Zirkzee's flair and confidence. It would certainly go a long way toward addressing the team's goal drought and revitalizing the attacking strategy under his leadership. The coming weeks will be formative not just for Zirkzee but for the future of Manchester United’s season as they strive to rise above the challenges they currently face.
A New Hope for Zirkzee at Manchester United
Reports indicate Amorim was thrilled about the prospect of working with Zirkzee, viewing him as integral to Manchester United's attacking strategy. The manager is well aware of the challenging environment at Old Trafford and intends to revamp the team's dynamics and tactics to get everyone, especially Zirkzee, back on track.
The impact of the coach’s early initiatives doesn't just concern individual players. The unit as a whole has underperformed—the goals scored tally is weak, with only 12 goals across 11 matches, trailing behind teams like Southampton and Crystal Palace. This deficiency has prompted urgent reassessments of both the formation and players involved.
Notably, Zirkzee's confidence has rapidly diminished, impacting his performance on the field. Initially celebrated for his debut match-winning contribution, since then, he has progressively seen less game time, forced to witness matches from the sidelines or the bench. Fans have been left disheartened at seeing a player they hoped would turn the tide for their side struggle so publicly.
"He’s still young, and there’s definitely potential there," said former teammate Ruud van Nistelrooy, who briefly took charge as interim manager before Amorim’s arrival. "Our focus has to be on nurturing him through this difficult phase. We must give him time to find his feet. He has exceptional talent, but he’s got to step up under the immense expectations of playing for Manchester United. His hold-up play is strong, but the numbers aren't reflecting what he’s capable of achieving on the field."
Understandably, with January transfer season approaching and speculation already swirling around potential moves—including interest from Juventus—Zirkzee must rekindle his form and secure his position at Manchester United before any decisions about his future are made.
It's safe to say Zirkzee's immediate future hinges on Amorim’s strategies and whether he can actualize Zirkzee’s potential, restoring his confidence and securing his place within the team. If Zirkzee can find his footing and once again establish his name as more than just another player struggling for form, his prospects at Manchester United could dramatically change. The clock is ticking—only time will tell whether Amorim’s faith can transform Zirkzee’s fortunes and lead Manchester United back to glory.
The Stakes for Amorim and Zirkzee
All eyes will be on the match against Ipswich Town when Amorim takes charge officially on November 24, as he has promised to shake things up. The fate of Zirkzee—and perhaps even the direction of United’s season—could rest heavily on this first step as the new manager attempts to put his stamp on the squad. Zirkzee, considered the wild card, could either seize the moment to reclaim his status or be relegated to the back of the lineup. The anticipation is palpable as both player and manager prepare for this next chapter together, one based on revival, expectation, and hope for the future.
