Zidane Iqbal could still have Manchester United future after FC Utrecht transfer

Former Manchester United star Zidane Iqbal could still have a future at the Old Trafford side despite joining FC Utrecht on a permanent move this summer, according to ESPN correspondent Rob Dawson on Twitter.

The Iraq international has officially joined the Eredivisie outfit in the ongoing transfer window. To that end, the Red Devils have received a fee of £850k for the youngster’s services. The Old Trafford side will also receive 40 per cent of any future sale.

However, United also have a buy-back clause for the 20-year-old. The Red Devils do not believe he is ready for the physicality of the Premier League yet. But if the midfielder were to develop in the Netherlands, a return to Manchester is not ruled out.

Zidane Iqbal's move from Man United to FC Utrecht confirmed. Fee around £850k. Deal includes 40 percent sell on and a buy-back clause. Feeling at United that he isn't quite ready for the physicality of the Premier League but club not ruling out a return if he develops in Holland.

— Rob Dawson (@RobDawsonESPN) June 26, 2023

Iqbal joined the Old Trafford side’s academy at the age of nine and made his way through the youth ranks. In the 2021/22 season, the youngster made his debut for the senior side.

The Iraqi national came on as a substitute in the final minutes of a Champions League group stage fixture against BSC Young Boys at home. The game ended in a 1-1 draw.

Unfortunately, we have not seen much of the 20-year-old since then. While the midfielder did impress during pre-season last summer under Erik ten Hag, the gaffer did not seem to trust him.

Iqbal made the squad on a number of occasions in the previous campaign. However, the Iraqi national did not make an appearance for United in a competitive match.

As things stand, the Red Devils’ engine room lacks youth. Most of our options in the middle of the park are in their 30s. Also, the likes of Donny van de Beek have failed to live up to expectations at the club.

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Therefore, Ten Hag should seemingly have given the 20-year-old more opportunities. Hopefully, now, the midfielder will be given regular game time in Utrecht and will improve enough to make his way back to the Old Trafford side.