Monday night’s clash against Everton brings an unexpected twist as Ruben Amorim makes a shock decision by handing Joshua Zirkzee his first start of the season.
It’s a rare opportunity for the Dutch striker, who has barely featured for the first team so far.
Zirkzee’s Limited Minutes Make This a Big Moment
Only academy centre back Tyler Fredricson has logged fewer minutes than Zirkzee this season, with the forward managing just 90 minutes across all competitions.
Despite this, the Daily Mail Sport revealed that Zirkzee will start tonight—a chance for him to prove he deserves more regular involvement.
Injuries Open the Door
Manchester United are without their £73.7million striker Benjamin Sesko, who faces roughly a month on the sidelines due to a knee issue sustained before the international break at Tottenham Hotspur.
Matheus Cunha also misses out, having suffered a minor knock in training on Saturday.
These absences create a rare window for Zirkzee to step up and make an impression.
Fighting for a Spot in the Netherlands Squad
Zirkzee’s struggle for minutes hasn’t gone unnoticed at the international level.
His dwindling playing time has put his hopes of representing the Netherlands in jeopardy unless he can start featuring more consistently for United.
Amorim’s Philosophy on Player Moves
Speaking ahead of the match, Ruben Amorim addressed the possibility of player departures in January, including Zirkzee and young talent Kobbie Mainoo.
“The first thing is that the club comes first, so we have to think about the club and the team and then everything can happen,” Amorim explained.
“I was a football player. I understand everything and I want to help my players in every situation, so I don’t know what is going to happen. I want my players happy.
I understand the frustration of some players, seeing that the World Cup is there, and I know what it means for the World Cup, but Manchester United comes first.
So if I can help the club and the players, I will be happy; if not, I have to think about the team.”
Zirkzee’s Determination Remains
Despite his frustration, sources close to the club stress that Zirkzee has been determined to turn his fortunes around.
He has never lost hope that a chance like this would eventually arrive, and tonight presents a crucial opportunity for him to prove himself.
Young Talent on the Bench
The matchday squad also features 18-year-old academy star Shea Lacey, who sits among the substitutes as he hopes to make his first-team debut after impressing Amorim in recent months.
It could be a memorable night for both emerging talents at Manchester United.
What’s Next?
With key strikers sidelined and young players ready to shine, tonight’s clash against Everton could shape the trajectory of Zirkzee’s season.
Fans will be watching closely to see whether this rare opportunity translates into a breakthrough moment for the Dutch forward.
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