Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has given fans an exciting glimpse into the future by highlighting the talents of ‘skilful’ Joshua Zirkzee. Known for his sharp technical ability and flair on the pitch, Zirkzee is poised to bring a new level of creativity to the team. Meulensteen praises the young forward’s potential to make a significant impact, blending his agility and precision to thrill Old Trafford. Stay tuned, Red Devils – Zirkzee could be the game-changer we’ve been for
Manchester United fans have had to wait until mid-July to see the first signings of the Ineos era at Old Trafford.
Now, it seems three players could join simultaneously. Ollie Watkins’ dramatic 90th-minute goal not only propelled England into their second consecutive European Championship final, knocking out the Dutch, but it might also accelerate Manchester United’s chase for two top transfer targets.
Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt were anticipated to finalize their moves to Manchester United once the Netherlands concluded their Euro 2024 journey. Similarly, Manuel Ugarte, after Uruguay’s exit from the Copa America, can now focus on his club future.
Expect some transfer announcements in the coming days.
Rene Meulensteen, a former Man United assistant coach, is well-equipped to evaluate the potential arrivals of a £34 million striker and a £43 million centre-half from Bologna and Bayern Munich, respectively.
Over the years, many players have struggled to adapt to the Premier League’s demands. However, Zirkzee, with his 6ft 4ins frame, combines elegance and physicality, reminiscent of Dimitar Berbatov. His intelligent movement and vision could complement Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, and others in United’s attack.
“(Zirkzee is an) interesting, young and up-and-coming player,” Meulensteen commented on July 11. “He is tall, strong, and very skilful. But it’s a bit of a surprising signing.”
Meulensteen, who won four Premier League titles with Sir Alex Ferguson, expected United to seek a more experienced striker to support young Rasmus Hojlund—someone like Ivan Toney or Stuttgart’s Serhou Guirassy.
However, Ineos aims to lower the squad’s average age and fill Old Trafford with exciting young talent, making 23-year-old Zirkzee a fitting choice.
“When players come from other leagues to the Premier League, they need time to adapt,” Meulensteen noted. “It will be interesting to see how Zirkzee performs because I thought United might go for a more experienced striker.”