Joshua Zirkzee finally decides where he’ll play his football for the rest of the 2025-26 season | OneFootball

Joshua Zirkzee may have finally made up his mind regarding his Manchester United future. The United striker has been among the Red Devils who have struggled for game time, with the absence of European football and an early Carabao Cup exit limiting opportunities.

Struggle for game time

By mid‑November, Zirkzee had managed just 95 minutes of football all season. He had been left as an unused substitute in seven of United’s 11 league fixtures.

For a player eager to develop his game and represent his national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, it was a tricky situation for the 24‑year‑old to navigate.

Change in fortunes

Fortunately, things began to shift after the November international break. With Benjamin Sesko injured against Tottenham Hotspur just before the internationals, Zirkzee got his chance.

United’s No.11 stepped in to cover for Sesko, starting three consecutive fixtures after the break. He produced decent displays against Everton, Crystal Palace (where he scored), and West Ham.

Yet, despite those performances, eyebrows were raised when he was dropped to the bench for United’s 4‑1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. That decision reignited speculation, with reports gathering pace that he was likely to join AS Roma.

Zirkzee: Transfer links and a fresh twist

As the gossip columns once again filled with talk of a possible exit, Sky Sports delivered a fresh twist.

According to the reputable UK outlet:

“Joshua Zirkzee wants to stay at Manchester United to fight for his place in the squad amid interest from Roma.”

The report added that INEOS may welcome this stance, noting:

“United are aware of the interest but are not thought to be actively looking to sell Zirkzee when the transfer window opens.”

Will opportunities come?

While Zirkzee appears set to continue at United, having made only three starts by matchday 15, the hope is that further opportunities will follow.

Those chances should arrive, even with Sesko nearing a return, as Bryan Mbeumo and Amad head off for AFCON duty. With United’s attacking options stretched, Zirkzee’s versatility, which allows him to also operate as a No.10, could prove invaluable.

Ultimately, this revelation may leave some baffled, but it should at least put an end to speculation over Zirkzee’s short‑term United future.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

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