BREAKING NEWS: “He played well today, but his ‘WELL’ is not enough for me. He missed a great chance that could have ended the game, which frustrated me,” said the person reporting live from Old Trafford. Not simply ball-kickers, but strikers with excellent killing instincts are what I require.” Van Nistelrooy is furious because he feels that the players did not perform well against Southampton. After a disastrous start to the season, Manchester United secured their second victory of the year. Despite being behind early on against Southampton, Manchester United managed to secure all three points with a convincing 3-0 victory on Saturday.Van nistelrooy issues a warning: Joshua Zirkzee plays a clever link-up throughout, but his deadly instinct is absent up top.
*Coming Live from Old Trafford*
In a post-match interview that caught everyone off guard, Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy did not hold back his disappointment despite his side’s 3-0 victory over Southampton. Although Manchester United secured their second win of the season, ending what had been a rocky start, van Nistelrooy was clearly unimpressed by the performance of one key player — Joshua Zirkzee.
Van Nistelrooy, known for his ruthless finishing during his time at United, was critical of Zirkzee’s display in front of goal. “He played well today, but his ‘well’ is not enough for me,” Van Nistelrooy said, visibly frustrated. “He missed a great chance that could have put the game to bed. This got me frustrated. I need strikers with great killer instincts, not just kicking the ball.”
These are harsh words from one of Manchester United’s greatest ever finishers, but they underline Van Nistelrooy’s no-nonsense approach to the game, especially when it comes to attacking football.
### A Strong Win, But Room for Improvement
Manchester United’s 3-0 win may look commanding on paper, but the game was far from straightforward. Southampton, despite being underdogs, had the better of the early exchanges, putting United under considerable pressure. The Saints dominated possession in the opening 20 minutes, forcing David de Gea to make some crucial saves. United’s defense looked shaky at times, and for a moment, it seemed like another bad result might be on the cards for the Red Devils.
However, a breakthrough came late in the first half, with United capitalizing on a defensive error from Southampton. From there, the game shifted in their favor. Despite Southampton’s relentless press, United managed to find the back of the net two more times in the second half, sealing a comprehensive 3-0 victory. Goals from Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and an own goal from Southampton’s Jan Bednarek were enough to secure all three points.
### Zirkzee’s Performance: A Mixed Bag
While the team’s overall performance was solid, Van Nistelrooy’s focus remained on Zirkzee. The Dutch striker, known for his clever link-up play and ability to create space for teammates, had moments of brilliance throughout the match. His movement and involvement in the build-up play were commendable, often drawing defenders and allowing his teammates to exploit the spaces. But for Van Nistelrooy, that wasn’t enough.
“There’s more to being a striker than just linking up play. When you get those chances, you have to take them. It’s that killer instinct that makes the difference at the top level,” Van Nistelrooy added.
The comment highlights the high standards expected at Manchester United, particularly in the forward positions. Van Nistelrooy, who once had a reputation for being one of the most clinical finishers in Europe, knows better than most what it takes to succeed at Old Trafford.
### What’s Next for Zirkzee?
Van Nistelrooy’s sharp critique may be seen as tough love for the young striker, but it also raises questions about Zirkzee’s future in the starting lineup. With Manchester United’s fanbase growing increasingly impatient after a rough start to the season, players will be under immense pressure to perform at their peak. Zirkzee, despite his potential, may need to work on his finishing to cement his place in the squad.
Van Nistelrooy concluded his interview with a warning to the entire squad: “This is Manchester United. Good is not enough. We need to be great, and that comes from a killer instinct in front of goal. Otherwise, the points will slip away.”
With two wins now under their belt, United’s season is starting to pick up momentum. But if Van Nistelrooy’s words are anything to go by, there is still plenty of work to be done—especially in attack.