Manchester United‘s ongoing crisis continues to deepen, with fans growing increasingly disillusioned as the club struggles to regain its former glory. This frustration reached a boiling point during the match against Newcastle United when Joshua Zirkzee was substituted by Ruben Amorim in the 33rd minute, prompting boos from the Old Trafford crowd.
Zirkzee was one of United’s marquee signings in the 2024 summer transfer window, arriving from Bologna for a hefty $45 million fee. The Dutch striker came with high expectations following his impressive performances in Serie A but has struggled to justify his price tag and win over the fans.
The latest chapter in his troubled tenure unfolded during the Newcastle game. United were being overrun in midfield with Christian Eriksen and Casemiro unable to maintain control, and Zirkzee, tasked with dropping deeper to support, failed to adapt. The 22-year-old misplaced six passes and lost possession seven times, leading Amorim to make an early tactical adjustment by bringing on academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo.
When Zirkzee’s substitution was announced, boos echoed around Old Trafford, reflecting the fans’ mounting dissatisfaction. As he made his way to the sideline, the jeers turned into applause for Mainoo, who entered the game to inject energy into United’s midfield.
Adding to the drama, Zirkzee chose to head straight to the locker room rather than join his teammates on the bench—a departure from standard protocol. While he returned to the bench a few minutes later, the incident fueled speculation about his growing discontent and uncertain future at the club.
Zirkzee’s struggles at Manchester United have made his future increasingly uncertain. Despite being signed during Erik ten Hag’s tenure, reports suggest the Dutch manager did not specifically request his acquisition. Under Ruben Amorim, Zirkzee was initially seen as a potential fresh start, but his continued underperformance has made him a scapegoat in a team plagued by broader issues.
A potential destination for Zirkzee is a return to Italy, though not to Bologna. Juventus coach Thiago Motta is reportedly interested in bringing Zirkzee to Turin to fill the void left by Dusan Vlahovic’s injury. Motta, who worked effectively with Zirkzee in Bologna, views the striker as a strong candidate to bolster his attacking options.
Given Juventus’ financial constraints, a permanent transfer is unlikely, with a loan deal emerging as the most realistic option. Reports from a month ago indicated that Zirkzee was already unhappy with his situation at Manchester United. After this latest episode and with the January transfer window fast approaching, the Dutchman may push to leave in search of a fresh opportunity.
