Manchester United Plan to Keep “Versatile” Star Who Has “A Lot to Offer,” Says Graeme Bailey

Manchester United have reportedly changed they’re mind about selling Joshua Zirkzee, after the forward impressed manager Ruben Amorim with his recent performances.

As the summer transfer window approaches, big changes are expected at Old Trafford. While United are looking to bring in new signings — especially in attacking positions — they are also planning to sell some players who haven’t been performing well.

However, it looks like Zirkzee, who was once thought to be on the way out has done enough to earn another chance.

The 23-year-old forward had a tough start under Amorim. The manager even said earlier in the season that he didn’t see Zirkzee as a striker who fit his system. At that point, many believed the Dutchman had no future at the club.

But things began to change when Zirkzee was moved into one of the two no.10 roles in Amorim’s new formation. Playing slightly deeper, rather than up front, allowed him to show off his creativity and smart link-up play. He started helping the team even though he wasn’t scoring many goals.

Before suffering an injury, Zirkzee had become one of United’s better performers in the second half of the season.

Despite earlier reports suggesting Amorim was open to letting Zirkzee leave, new information says the club is now planning to keep him for next season.

Football journalist Graeme Bailey told UnitedInFocus:

“We can say as it stands United are planning to keep him. He does still have interest, but it is believed they feel Zirkzee has a lot to offer, in terms of versatility etc.”

The fact that Zirkzee can play both as a striker and in the no.10 role is now seen as a big positive, and it’s helped him change Amorim’s mind.

Even though Zirkzee has made progress, there are still areas of his game that need work. One of the main concerns is that he doesn’t score enough goals. His movement and passing have been useful, but United need more of a threat in front of goal.

Another thing is that Zirkzee performs better when he plays alongside teammates who understand his style. At times, some players around him haven’t been on the same page, making it harder for him to shine.

But with United expected to sign more players in the summer, Zirkzee might get the support he needs to fully show his potential next season.

While it’s disappointing that Zirkzee will miss the rest of the current season due to injury, the Dutch forward will be aiming to return stronger in the 2025/26 campaign. If he can add more goal-scoring to his game and continue to link up well with his teammates, he could become a key player under Amorim.