Joshua Zirkzee

Executive Summary

Joshua Zirkzee, born on 2001-05-22, is a centre-forward currently at Manchester United. He arrived in July 2024 for €42.5m after two strong seasons at Bologna, yet he has not featured in the opening league matches, remaining an unused substitute while the manager opts for other attacking options.

Playing Style and Key Attributes

Zirkzee describes himself as a "9.5" — a false striker who drops into midfield to link play rather than occupy the penalty area permanently. At 193 cm and right-footed, he combines physical presence with technical comfort in tight spaces, and Michael Carrick has acknowledged he can produce "top things" in possession. The lack of a fixed role, however, has made it difficult for him to establish a rhythm in the current system.

Career and Recent Context

Loan spells at Parma and Anderlecht followed in 2021 and 2022, then a permanent €27.5m transfer to Bologna where he rebuilt his reputation. At United he has yet to start a Premier League fixture, with Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo preferred in the front line.

Transfers and Outlook

The contract runs until June 2029. Everton attempted a deadline-day loan after their move for Folarin Balogun collapsed, but United refused to weaken the squad without a replacement. Atlético Madrid have since emerged as a potential destination should Julián Álvarez depart, while Fiorentina, Juventus, Como and Napoli have all shown varying levels of interest that did not materialise into offers. The January window is expected to reopen the conversation if his playing time does not improve.