Manchester United’s new signing Joshua Zirkzee has come under harsh criticism from former star Paul Parker. Despite a challenging start to the European football season, United appeared to be getting back on track with convincing wins over Southampton (3-0) and Barnsley (7-0). However, consecutive draws against Crystal Palace and Twente in the Europa League have once again put the club under immense pressure.
A recurring issue for the Red Devils has been the underperformance of their attacking line. Despite having notable forwards like Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee, and Rasmus Højlund in the squad, United have struggled to find the back of the net consistently. They’ve scored just 13 goals in their seven games across all competitions this season, and only five goals in their five Premier League matches—a worrying statistic for a team with such attacking talent.
Parker’s criticism highlights the mounting frustration among fans and pundits as United’s forwards continue to fall short of expectations. If the club is to turn things around and compete at the highest level, their front line will need to step up and start delivering the goals needed to secure consistent results.
Paul Parker is not impressed with Joshua Zirkzee
Parker expressed his doubts about Joshua Zirkzee’s role in Manchester United’s lineup, especially now that Rasmus Højlund has returned from injury. Speaking to Betting Expert, he questioned where the Dutch forward would fit into the team, suggesting that unless manager Erik ten Hag adjusts the tactical setup, it would be challenging to accommodate Zirkzee without sacrificing a wide player.
Parker’s comments underline the conundrum Ten Hag faces in balancing the squad’s attacking options. With Højlund now available and the need to maintain width in the formation, finding the right role for Zirkzee could prove difficult. If Ten Hag is to utilize both players effectively, he may need to rethink the team’s dynamics to ensure they can coexist without disrupting the overall balance of the side.
“Once Højlund is back from injury he will start because you need a focal point. He’s needed. I can’t see how Zirkzee gets in the team. Who do you take out to bring him in? Do you take out a wide player? Unless ten Hag changes the system I can’t see how Zirkzee plays and I don’t know his best position. Can he win the ball back? I look at him and when he starts games, his socks are around his ankles and he looks like he’s ran a half marathon before he’s even started a game. I’m not sure how fit he is. There’s no great burst in his runs or a change of pace. He’s very one paced. I just don’t know. Capello said the pace of the game in England has caught Zirkzee off guard.”
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While Zirkzee has joined Manchester United, it remains uncertain how Erik Ten Hag will integrate him into the lineup. With stalwarts like Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho already spearheading United’s attack and Rasmus Højlund back as the main striker, Zirkzee’s potential game time is in question.
Much will depend on Ten Hag, known for his unconventional decisions. Although Zirkzee’s role in the starting XI is not yet clear, it’s likely that he will still feature regularly, even if only as a substitute. The Dutch forward will be eager to make an impact, whether coming off the bench or seizing any starting opportunities that come his way.
The former Bologna striker is determined to prove himself in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. With plenty of talent in United’s attacking ranks, Zirkzee will need to make the most of his chances to establish himself at Old Trafford.
