Dimitar Berbatov warns Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee that their time is running out at Manchester United under Ruben Amorim. Both Hojlund and Zirkzee have failed to establish themselves as the main forward under Amorim, struggling to contribute with goals.
The Red Devils have struggled immensely in the Premier League, currently 15th after suffering 16 losses throughout the inconsistent campaign. Their terrible start cost Erik ten Hag his job as United brought Amorim immediately to improve their fortune this season.
However, the squad that Amorim inherited has failed to adjust to his tactical style of play, continuing their poor form. The former Sporting CP boss enjoyed great success with his tactics in Portugal, with Viktor Gyokeres dominating the forward position.
While many fans hoped Hojlund or Zirkzee could become Amorim’s Gyokeres at United, they have failed to improve their performances. Hojlund joined United in the summer of 2023 and started his tenure strongly, but his goal drought issues consistently persisted.
The 22-year-old has made 47 appearances in all competitions for United, scoring nine goals and providing four assists this season. As the Danish forward struggled to establish himself at United, Ten Hag signed Zirkzee last summer to provide healthy competition.
However, Zirkzee has suffered the same problem, failing to establish himself at the club despite glimpses of good moments. The 23-year-old has scored seven goals and provided three assists from 48 games in all competitions this season for United.
Speaking to FourFourTwo magazine (via Manchester Evening News), Berbatov warned both Zirkzee and Hojlund that their time at United under Amorim is running out as they continue to struggle. He said:
“Well, different time, different football, different players. United have been going through a difficult period in the Premier League, and especially even more so now that Liverpool have won the 20th title, which obviously is a big disappointment for everybody connected to United. As for their striker dilemma, that will stay until either the current strikers start scoring goals regularly, or the new season comes and the manager decides his patience is no longer there with them, and maybe he’ll go for someone else.”
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Berbatov is spot on as Liverpool equaling United’s 20th league title has only added to the already frustrating campaign. The Red Devils always boasted incredible attacking talents who bailed them out during the difficult times. A consistent goal scorer could also ease the pressure that Amorim has faced since joining the club.