Manchester United star Joshua Zirkzee thanked the loyal fan base for helping him get through the torrid start at United. Zirkzee has competed with Rasmus Hojlund for the starting role as the main forward at the club since his arrival.
However, the Dutchman faced a lot of challenges due to the poor collective form of the team throughout this season. The Red Devils are currently 14th in the Premier League table, highlighting the downfall of this team at the moment.
Ruben Amorim succeeded Erik ten Hag in the middle of the season and that transition caused some concern for Zirkzee. As one of the last signings under Ten Hag, Zirkzee joined with the expectation to play under a particular style.
However, Amorim deploys a three-man defence and prefers a central forward of a certain profile, playing alongside two wide attackers. Both Zirkzee and Hojlund have struggled to produce consistent contributions at the frontline which has raised uncertainty about their future.
In an exclusive interview with the latest edition of Inside United (via Manutd.com), Zirkzee thanked United fans for supporting him. He said:
“Of course, it wasn’t the best period. We all know what happened and for the fans to stand behind me, like they did back then, was maybe even a relief. For them to show that they’re not giving up on me. To just show that they’re still behind me. As I said before, it just motivates you a lot. It motivates you. I think we’ve seen, against Real Sociedad, when we got 1-0 behind, the fans just kept going. That atmosphere that they can create, it’s something you won’t find anywhere else on this planet. It’s amazing what people on the outside of the pitch can do for the people on the pitch as well.”
Zirkzee has played 48 games in all competitions for the Red Devils this season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists so far. The 23-year-old’s limited contribution is a big source of concern for the fans and the club as his teammate Hojlund continues to struggle as well.
Amorim had Viktor Gyokeres at Sporting CP as his main forward who thrived and provided incredible output for him. The Red Devils could search for a player of that profile during the summer as Zirkzee’s future remains uncertain.
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However, the Dutch international continues to work hard and do the best within his abilities unlike many of his teammates. A lot of United players have received criticism for lacking motivation and commitment towards the club, playing a big role in their miserable season.