Joshua Zirkzee: Man United forward wants January exit after frustrating development | OneFootball

Joshua Zirkzee’s frustration at Manchester United has “escalated significantly” in recent weeks, as per reports.

Zirkzee joined United from Bologna in a deal worth £36.5m​​ on the back of an excellent 2023/24 campaign in Italy.

However, the Dutch striker seemed to struggle as the focal point of Erik ten Hag’s attack. Interestingly, he enjoyed a fine run of form as a wide playmaker under Amorim, featuring in 21 successive league games in the second half of last season.

Three clubs wanted Zirkzee in summer

According to the Daily Mail, Napoli “desperately” wanted to sign the technically gifted number nine in the summer but United had no interest in sanctioning his exit.

Juventus and PSV Eindhoven also showed interest in Zirkzee. Still, the Red Devils kept hold of the 24-year-old and instead let Rasmus Hojlund depart to Naples.

After initially showing so much faith in the youngster, Amorim has practically ignored him this campaign.

He is yet to start a game for United and has been an unused substitute in four of the seven Premier League games so far.

Zirkzee considering Man United exit

It is understood Zirkzee’s frustration with his situation at Old Trafford has “reached a point where he is looking for an exit route in January.”

The Netherlands international is “deeply frustrated” after falling down the pecking order under Amorim, who added Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo to his ranks in the summer.

Zirkzee has been left out of Ronald Koeman’s squad for the qualifiers against Malta and Finland. He is desperate to get back into the Netherlands squad ahead of the World Cup next summer.

As such, an exit in January is viewed as “absolutely crucial” for the forward.

Kobbie Mainoo faces a similar concern at the club. The Englishman’s request for a move away in the summer was turned down by United. However, he continues to struggle under Amorim, having yet to start a Premier League game this term.

Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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