After Casemiro confirmed his departure from Manchester United (MU), another Red Devils star appears ready to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season. Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly determined to seek a fresh start this summer after struggling to secure regular playing time under interim manager Michael Carrick.
Limited Opportunities at Old Trafford
Zirkzee joined Manchester United from Bologna 18 months ago in a £36 million (€42 million) transfer. Expectations were high for the 24-year-old forward, who had shown promise in Serie A. However, his time at Old Trafford has been challenging, with limited starts and sporadic appearances. This season, he has started only four matches across all competitions, highlighting his struggle to break into United’s first team.
The striker’s opportunities arose primarily due to injuries to Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko in November and December 2025. During that period, Zirkzee managed to feature in the starting lineup, but his minutes dropped again once key players returned. His last start came in the penultimate game under former manager Ruben Amorim in late December 2025, during which he was substituted at halftime—a clear signal of his diminishing role.
Summer Move Back on the Cards
Initially, Zirkzee considered a transfer in January 2026, but the managerial changes at Old Trafford delayed any potential moves. The departure of Amorim and appointment of Michael Carrick temporarily stalled United’s transfer activity. Now, reports from The Sun on Thursday, March 12, 2026, indicate that Zirkzee is firm on leaving the club this summer.
Serie A is reportedly one of the leading options for the Dutch forward. Italy represents familiar territory for Zirkzee, who previously thrived in the league with Bologna. With his United appearances remaining limited under Carrick, a return to Italy could offer him the playing time needed to reignite his career.
Struggles to Find His Best Role
Since joining Manchester United, Zirkzee has made 69 appearances and scored nine goals. Yet, his performances as a central striker have been inconsistent, particularly compared to Sesko, who has become the preferred choice up front.
In deeper attacking positions, players like Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have delivered more productivity. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has reclaimed his favored role as an attacking midfielder behind the striker in Carrick’s setup, further restricting Zirkzee’s chances to influence matches.
A Summer of Departures
This summer could see a significant reshuffle at Old Trafford. Casemiro has already confirmed his exit as his contract concludes, prompting United to explore replacements such as Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson.
Harry Maguire’s contract will also expire in the coming months, though negotiations for an extension are reportedly ongoing. Jadon Sancho is set to leave when his deal ends, while Marcus Rashford’s loan spell in Spain is expected to be made permanent by Barcelona.
Rasmus Hojlund could also depart if Napoli secures UEFA Champions League qualification, further highlighting the potential overhaul within United’s squad. These departures may pave the way for Zirkzee to seek a fresh start elsewhere, particularly in Italy, where he could enjoy a more pivotal role.
Carrick’s Tactical Challenges
For Carrick, managing the squad amid multiple departures and injuries presents a complex challenge. Finding the right balance between experience and youth, while keeping the team competitive in the Premier League, will require tactical flexibility. Zirkzee’s exit could offer opportunities for emerging forwards or new signings to stake their claim in United’s attacking lineup.
Conclusion: A Career Reboot on the Horizon
Joshua Zirkzee’s determination to leave Manchester United reflects a desire for consistent playing time and career progression. With Italy emerging as a potential destination, the Dutch striker could reignite his form in a league where he has previously thrived.
For Manchester United, Zirkzee’s departure would mark another chapter in a summer likely defined by significant squad changes. Balancing incoming and outgoing transfers will be crucial to maintaining competitiveness, while giving opportunities to players ready to step up.
As Zirkzee eyes a return to Serie A, fans and analysts will closely monitor his next move, hoping the striker finds a platform to showcase his abilities and reclaim his status as a promising talent in European football.
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