During a recent talkSPORT segment, former footballer and pundit Gabby Agbonlahor shared his concerns about Joshua Zirkzee’s underwhelming performances ahead of Manchester United’s crucial Europa League fixture against Fenerbahce. Agbonlahor did not shy away from expressing his doubts about whether the young striker has what it takes to make a lasting impact at Old Trafford this season.
Zirkzee, just 23 years old, arrived at Manchester United in July after completing a £35 million move from Serie A club Bologna. Expectations were high for the Dutch forward, especially after he signed a five-year deal with the Red Devils. Zirkzee got off to a promising start, scoring a crucial goal on his debut during United’s opening Premier League match against Fulham, giving fans and pundits hope that he might be the next big talent to emerge at Old Trafford.
However, since that bright beginning, Zirkzee’s form has dipped considerably. In the 10 appearances that have followed across all competitions, the striker has failed to find the back of the net again. Despite only being handed five starts by manager Erik ten Hag, his inconsistency has been evident, and both fans and experts have started to voice their concerns.
Agbonlahor, known for his blunt assessments, weighed in on Zirkzee’s situation. While he acknowledged that the young forward still has time to improve, he didn’t hold back in his criticism. “Everyone’s talking about Zirkzee being this amazing player, but he goes to Manchester United and can’t even control the ball?” Agbonlahor said during the segment. He added, “Of course, he’s got time. But since the season started, he’s been poor.”
Agbonlahor’s comments reflect a growing sense of unease surrounding Zirkzee’s ability to adapt to the pace and physicality of Premier League football. With his poor first touch and lack of involvement in key moments, the Dutchman is struggling to make the impact expected of a £35 million signing. The pressure is now mounting, not just from fans and pundits, but within the club itself.
There’s also increasing speculation about Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United. Reports from Italian journalist Carlo Pellegatti suggest that the striker could be loaned out as early as the January transfer window. A potential return to Serie A has been mentioned, with AC Milan rumored to be interested in acquiring his services. Zirkzee’s struggles, combined with Manchester United’s need for consistent firepower up front, may force the club’s hand as they consider sending him out on loan to gain more regular playing time.
One of the biggest challenges Zirkzee faces is the fierce competition for the striker position at Manchester United. Danish forward Rasmus Højlund, who had a stellar debut season, scoring 16 goals across all competitions, is vying for the same number nine role. Højlund’s return to fitness after an injury layoff only intensifies the pressure on Zirkzee. With Højlund back in the picture and firing on all cylinders, Zirkzee’s window to impress Erik ten Hag is narrowing.
As the season progresses, Zirkzee will need to prove his worth if he hopes to secure a long-term place in United’s attack. With the January transfer window looming, the young Dutchman may have only a few more opportunities to convince Ten Hag and the United faithful that he belongs at Old Trafford. If not, a loan move back to Italy may become the best option for both player and club.
In the meantime, Agbonlahor’s stinging criticism serves as a reminder that life in the Premier League can be unforgiving, especially for young talents like Zirkzee, who are expected to deliver immediately at a club like Manchester United. Whether Zirkzee can rise to the challenge or if he will be shipped out in search of more consistent form remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the pressure is on.