BREAKING NEWS: “The best move for January is to facilitate his departure. He’s made his position untenable, and it’s time for a fresh start,” – Ruben Amorim reportedly open to letting a Manchester United star go in the upcoming transfer window. The decision could alleviate squad tensions and free up crucial resources for rebuilding under the new regime.
Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United is hanging in the balance, just six months after his £36 million transfer from Bologna. The Dutch striker, who joined in July after an impressive campaign in Serie A, has struggled to replicate his previous form at Old Trafford. Last season, Zirkzee scored 12 goals in 37 appearances, playing a crucial role in Bologna’s Champions League qualification under manager Thiago Motta.
Zirkzee’s arrival at United was orchestrated by former boss Erik ten Hag, who saw him as a competitor for attacking roles alongside Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford. However, ten Hag’s departure and the subsequent tactical shift under new manager Ruben Amorim have left Zirkzee marginalized. Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation has emphasized versatility and decision-making, areas where Zirkzee has struggled to adapt.
According to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus could offer Zirkzee a fresh start in January, potentially reuniting him with Thiago Motta, now the manager in Turin. A loan move is reportedly on the table, with Motta eager to rekindle their successful partnership and help the striker regain his form.
Recent performances have highlighted Zirkzee’s struggles. In United’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Ipswich Town, Rashford was deployed centrally and scored early, while Zirkzee came on as a 68th-minute substitute but failed to make an impact. Similarly, in the Europa League clash against Bodo/Glimt, Højlund started alongside Mason Mount and Alejandro Garnacho, delivering two goals—including the winner—while Zirkzee remained on the bench.
This season, Zirkzee has completed only one full match, scoring once in 18 appearances across all competitions. Amorim has openly called for improvement, particularly in Zirkzee’s positioning and decision-making during attacks. Speaking to Sky Sports, Amorim commented:
“Decision-making is a concern—you shouldn’t need to coach that at this level. Players must recognize when to hold possession and when to push forward. Josh needs to understand that during our attacks, he has to be in the box for the crosses.”
A potential loan move to Juventus could offer Zirkzee the opportunity to rebuild his confidence under Motta’s guidance, in a system tailored to his strengths. However, United face a dilemma: allowing Zirkzee to leave might leave them short in attack, especially given the demands of their season.
For Zirkzee, the January transfer window could mark a critical turning point in his career, as he seeks to reignite the form that initially made him a sought-after signing. Whether he stays to fight for his place or departs for a fresh start, his next steps will be pivotal for both his development and United’s plans.
