Zirkzee Scores Late Winner on Premier League Debut for Manchester United
In a pleasing display of symmetry, Joshua Zirkzee scored a late winner on his Premier League debut for Manchester United against Fulham at Old Trafford, mirroring the feat achieved by another Dutch forward 23 years earlier. While Zirkzee may not reach the same goal-scoring heights as Ruud van Nistelrooy, his fellow countryman and current United coaching assistant, his 87th-minute goal was cause for shared delight.
Erik ten Hag, United’s manager, emphasized the significance of Zirkzee’s goal, regardless of his nationality, stating that it is always a great achievement for a striker to score their first goal for the club. Ten Hag also referenced the struggles of Rasmus Hojlund, United’s big-money signing from last season, who took 15 games to find the net in the Premier League.
The goal from Zirkzee sent the majority of the capacity crowd into raptures, with the atmosphere reflecting the anticipation surrounding the £36.5m signing from Bologna. Zirkzee expressed his gratitude for the experience, describing it as one of the best feelings at Manchester United and a dream come true.
A More Optimistic Outlook for Manchester United
The result against Fulham also prompted a more reflective assessment from pundits, including former United captain Gary Neville. He praised the overall sense of control and impetus at the club, attributing it to the presence of a new chief executive, Omar Berrada, and sporting director, Dan Ashworth. Neville expressed optimism about the club’s progress, highlighting the improvement in player recruitment and the team’s stronger position compared to last season.
Zirkzee’s performance, marked by a nonchalant celebration that matched his composed finish, received praise from Roy Keane. Keane described the goal as brilliant and commended Zirkzee’s neat and tidy link-up play. However, he also noted that United need to be more ruthless in front of goal.
Complications and Careful Management
There were complications surrounding Zirkzee in the summer, as Ten Hag revealed that the 23-year-old had ended the previous season with an injury that was expected to rule him out of Euro 2024. However, further injuries to the Dutch national team meant he was selected by Ronald Koeman anyway. This resulted in an extended break for Zirkzee, who had to be managed carefully upon his return to pre-season training. As a result, he was on the bench for the Community Shield defeat against Manchester City.
Ten Hag highlighted Zirkzee’s unique attributes, particularly his ability to link up with teammates, but stressed the importance of him arriving in the box to score goals, which he successfully demonstrated against Fulham.
Assessing Transfer Options
With less than two weeks remaining in the transfer window, Manchester United is still assessing their options. Midfield remains an area of interest, with Burnley’s Sander Berge among the potential signings. However, the club’s ability to make further purchases will depend on their ability to generate funds.
Scott McTominay, a Scotland international, is considered a saleable asset, although it is uncertain if the player himself wants to leave. Napoli has shown interest, and Fulham even had a bid turned down for the 27-year-old. Their fans cheekily sang that McTominay wants to sign for Fulham when he was introduced as a substitute against them.
Jadon Sancho, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, was not involved in the opening encounter due to an ear infection, according to Ten Hag. However, he confirmed that Sancho could have played, but the manager chose other players for the bench. Chelsea is the latest club to be linked with the winger, who had a falling out with Ten Hag last season.
Ten Hag acknowledged that only 20 players can be included in the squad, and while it may be frustrating for individual players, the focus is on the team and the club as a whole. He hinted that the team selection could change throughout the season.