Joshua Zirkzee: Is a Serie A Return on the Horizon After Struggles at Manchester United?

Joshua Zirkzee’s time at Manchester United has been anything but smooth. The Dutch striker, once hailed as a promising addition to the squad, now finds himself under heavy scrutiny. Harsh fan criticism, lackluster performances, and rumors of a potential move back to Serie A have taken center stage in what has become a challenging season for the 22-year-old.

Struggles on the Pitch and Beyond

Manchester United’s recent 0-2 loss to Newcastle United was a low point for Zirkzee. Substituted after just 33 minutes following a poor display, he faced boos from the home crowd on his way off the pitch—a moment so difficult it reportedly brought him to tears.

“It was a very tough moment for him,” said United coach Ruben Amorim. “He’s a human being. Sometimes, as a coach, you have to make decisions for the team and the player. He was struggling, and we needed a different approach on the field.”

Zirkzee’s performances this season have been underwhelming. Despite being signed for over €40 million from Bologna in the summer, he has managed only three goals in 19 Premier League appearances, 12 of which were off the bench. This is a stark contrast to his previous season in Serie A, where he scored 11 goals and contributed several assists, helping Bologna secure an unprecedented Champions League qualification.

A Reflection of United’s Broader Issues

The struggles of Manchester United as a whole are hard to ignore. The club sits a disappointing 14th in the Premier League with just 22 points from 19 games. Manager Ruben Amorim, who was brought in with high expectations, recently admitted the situation has become “embarrassing.”

“This club needs a shock,” Amorim said. “The fans deserve better, and I think everyone is tired of excuses.”

Zirkzee, with his underperformance and hefty price tag, has become a symbol of United’s current crisis.

Juventus Interested in a Winter Move

Amid this turbulent season, Italian media outlets like Corriere dello Sport suggest Zirkzee might be on his way out. Juventus, searching for reinforcements in their attack, is reportedly considering the Dutch forward for a winter transfer. Injuries to key players like Arkadiusz Milik have left the Italian side looking for options to support their star striker, Dusan Vlahovic.

A move could take the form of either a permanent transfer or a loan deal. Such a switch would reunite Zirkzee with his former Bologna coach, Thiago Motta, who also moved clubs this summer. Motta knows Zirkzee’s potential well, having witnessed his standout performances during their time together in Serie A.

“Zirkzee is a very talented player,” Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli remarked, though he added, “He’s under contract with Manchester United.”

Mixed Reactions from Fans and Experts

The Newcastle game highlighted the tension surrounding Zirkzee. While many fans expressed their frustration, others—including club legend Gary Neville—were more sympathetic.

“Zirkzee hasn’t had the best performances, but he’s also a person,” Neville commented. “Booing your own player doesn’t help. Yes, he had a bad game, but so did everyone else.”

What Lies Ahead?

Zirkzee’s contract with Manchester United runs until 2029, but his future at the club seems increasingly uncertain. A return to Serie A, where he has already proven himself, might be the reset he needs to regain his confidence and form.

For Juventus, acquiring Zirkzee could bolster their attack at a critical time in their campaign. For Zirkzee, it would offer the chance to reunite with Motta and play in a league where he has already thrived.

As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Zirkzee stays to fight for his place at Old Trafford or opts for a new chapter back in Italy. Either way, it’s clear that the young striker needs a fresh start to reignite his promising career.