90min
·15 luglio 2024
Joshua Zirkzee reveals what he said to Kobbie Mainoo at Euro 2024
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90min
·15 luglio 2024
New Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has revealed that he told Kobbie Mainoo "see you soon" when the two briefly chatted after last week's Euro 2024 semi-final.
Zirkzee appeared off the bench in stoppage time for Netherlands, making just his second senior international appearance in the process, while Mainoo had played almost the entire game for England. The pair were then spotted in conversation following the final whistle.
At that point, Zirkzee already knew he was bound for United after talks had been ongoing over the course of several weeks – 90min first revealed interest in the Dutchman back in January. It was the day after the semi-final when reports of an agreement over a payment structure between United and Bologna emerged, while he was then on a plane to England that night.
Having been unveiled as a United player on Sunday, Zirkzee was asked during a photoshoot with club media what Mainoo had said to him on the pitch in Dortmund.
"He just asked me if I was coming. I said see you soon after the final!" Zirkzee explained.
United are yet to confirm what shirt number the 23-year-old former Bayern Munich talent will wear this coming season, but the 9 jersey previously worn by Anthony Martial is vacant. Zirkzee wore that shirt at Bologna, although Rasmus Hojlund could also eye a switch from 11.
Zirkzee is expected to complement Hojlund in a new-look United attack. Both players have a similar physical stature, but while Hojlund is more of a penalty area bulldozer in the Erling Haaland mould, Zirkzee is noted for dribbling and creativity and has drawn comparisons with Ronaldinho.
He gives different options for United boss Erik ten Hag, potentially offering relief for Hojlund in a lone striker system or at times doubling up and playing alongside the Dane.
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