Legend advises striker to leave MU to restart his career

Dutch football icon Ruud Gullit thinks Joshua Zirkzee ought to depart Manchester United promptly to rescue his career, given the striker’s difficulties and the intense pressure he is under at Old Trafford.

Joshua Zirkzee is going through the toughest period since he emerged in European football. After less than two seasons with Manchester United, the Dutch forward has been advised by legend Ruud Gullit to leave Old Trafford early to “cut off the negative energy” and revive his career.

Joining Man United in summer 2024 for over £36 million, Zirkzee was expected to bring fresh energy to the traditional English club’s attack. Previously, he had a breakthrough season at Bologna under coach Thiago Motta, becoming the focal point of their play and playing a key role in helping the team qualify for the Champions League, a remarkable achievement in Serie A.

With a strong physique, smooth technique, and modern football intelligence, Zirkzee was once seen as a complete striker suited to top-level football trends. However, the Premier League environment has proven to be a huge challenge. At Man United, the 2001-born player struggles to adapt to tactical systems, often appearing out of sync and lacking sharpness in finishing.

Although occasionally praised for his ability to hold up the ball and link play, Zirkzee has not met expectations in goal-scoring output. After 14 Premier League appearances this season, he has only started 4 matches. Across all competitions, the Dutch striker has scored just 9 goals in 65 appearances—a disappointing figure compared to initial hopes.

Speaking to the media, Ruud Gullit did not hesitate to highlight the mistake in his younger colleague’s career choice. “Zirkzee made an error by joining Manchester United at a time when the club was filled with too much negative energy. He should have stayed in Italy or moved to Juventus or AC Milan to continue his development,” Gullit emphasized. According to the former AC Milan star, Serie A is the most suitable environment for Zirkzee to fully realize his potential.

During the winter transfer window, Juventus, AC Milan, and Roma all showed interest in Zirkzee. However, Man United refused to let him go without finding an adequate replacement, causing the deal to collapse at the last moment.

As the season approaches its end, Zirkzee’s future is likely to be decided in the summer. Roma currently emerges as the most probable destination. For the Dutch striker, returning to Serie A is not only a chance to restart his career but also a way to escape the dark period at Old Trafford and prove the talent that once caught Europe’s attention.