November 30th 2024.
It hasn't been an easy start for Zirkzee since joining Old Trafford. Recent reports from Italy suggest that the 23-year-old has made the decision to leave Manchester United in January. It seems he is eager to reunite with his former manager Thiago Motta, who is now at Juventus.
Zirkzee joined United in the summer for a hefty sum of £36million, along with four other signings. His Premier League debut against Fulham saw him come off the bench and score, but unfortunately, that has been his only goal so far. Fans have expressed concerns about his performances and he has not started a Premier League match since being substituted at half-time in their 3-0 loss to Tottenham.
Last season, Zirkzee had a successful campaign at Bologna, where Motta was the manager. The team even qualified for the Champions League for the first time in their history. Motta's move to Juventus in June has sparked rumors of a potential reunion with Zirkzee, as well as another former Bologna player, Lewis Ferguson.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Zirkzee is keen to leave United in January to work under Motta again, with the Italian coach eyeing him as an alternative to Dusan Vlahovic for their attacking line. Juventus is interested in a loan deal, but it remains to be seen if United will allow it without bringing in a replacement.
In his first game under new manager Ruben Amorim, Zirkzee came off the bench for the final 20 minutes against Ipswich Town. He was also on the bench for their Europa League win over Bodo/Glimt, where Rasmus Hojlund scored twice. However, since his debut goal against Fulham, Zirkzee has not found the back of the net.
Amorim has made it clear that he expects more from Zirkzee, especially in terms of his decision-making and positioning during attacks. When asked about it, he stated, "I think that [decision-making] is a concern, you don't need to coach them at this level. You have to keep the ball and know the momentum to put the ball in front. Sometimes you feel that you can't keep the ball and you [have to] put the ball in front."
He also highlighted the need for Zirkzee to improve his understanding of the game and make better decisions in crucial moments. Amorim believes that this is an area where the team needs to improve, rather than focusing on the specific formation they play.
In the end, it seems that Zirkzee's time at Old Trafford may be coming to an end, as he looks for a reunion with his former manager Motta at Juventus. Fans will have to wait and see if United is willing to let him go without bringing in a replacement, as they currently have limited options up front.
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