When Joshua Zirkzee made the £36.5 million move from Bologna to Manchester United last summer, expectations were high.
However, his first season in English football was anything but smooth.
Struggles with form, a tough adaptation period, and a lack of consistent impact saw him quickly become a target for criticism from frustrated fans.
The lowest point came in December when he was subbed off just 33 minutes into a 2-0 loss against Newcastle.
That moment, met with jeers from the crowd, seemed to signal the beginning of the end for his United career.
Many believed he would be offloaded in the January transfer window.
Signs of a Turnaround
Fast forward a few months, and the narrative has taken a sharp turn. Zirkzee has gradually worked his way back into the team, showing flashes of the talent that earned him Serie A’s Young Player of the Season award in 2023-24.
Despite United’s broader struggles under Ruben Amorim, the Dutch forward has found his rhythm, particularly in a deeper role within Amorim’s 3-4-3 setup.
Though his overall numbers for the season—six goals and two assists in 41 appearances—aren’t particularly eye-catching, his recent performances suggest he’s beginning to settle.
That progress was on display Thursday night in United’s Europa League clash against Real Sociedad, where he scored in a 1-1 draw before Sociedad equalized through a penalty.
Fans Rally Behind Him
It wasn’t just Zirkzee’s goal that caught attention—it was his overall performance.
The shift in fan sentiment was evident on social media, where many praised his resilience and improvement.
One supporter wrote:
“From being booed at Old Trafford to putting in back-to-back solid performances.
He’s quietly played himself into the team and made it difficult to drop him. So happy for Joshua Zirkzee.”
Another added:
“Joshua Zirkzee has quietly been plugging away the last few games and solidifying his place in the starting 11. Well deserved.”
There was also a growing appreciation for how Amorim’s tactical adjustments had helped Zirkzee find his place. One fan pointed out:
“Many expected him to be something he’s not—an out-and-out striker. That led to unfair scrutiny.
But he’s kept his head down, putting in shifts and making the most of his opportunities despite the lack of movement around him.”
Amorim’s Vote of Confidence
Even Amorim himself acknowledged Zirkzee’s progress, praising his work ethic and recent contributions.
After the Sociedad game, the United manager said:
“He deserves it because he is working really well, improving lots of things in the game.
He was really important for us today.”
What’s Next for Zirkzee?
With momentum on his side, Zirkzee now faces a crucial test—maintaining this form and cementing his place in United’s plans.
Up next, the Red Devils take on Arsenal in the Premier League before the decisive second leg against Real Sociedad next Thursday.
If he continues on this trajectory, Zirkzee could go from an early-season scapegoat to one of United’s most promising assets.