Zidane Iqbal has confirmed his departure from Manchester United after 15 years at the club.
It was announced earlier this week that the 20-year-old would be leaving United in a permanent move to Eredivisie side FC Utrecht for a fee of around €1 million. His new contract includes a significant sell-on clause, as per The Athletic.
The news came as a surprise to supporters as Iqbal had been deemed an exciting prospect by those who had followed him through the academy. Unlike several other Carrington graduates, he did not complete any loan spells away from the club to develop his skills in first-team football.
He made his debut in 2021 during a Europa League clash with Young Boys but was not granted any further appearances under Erik ten Hag last season. The manager included Iqbal in 17 matchday squads but kept him on the bench.
Now at least, the Iraq international will be able to enjoy his football, play regularly and show the world what he’s truly capable of.
Iqbal reflects on exit in emotional farewell post
He bid farewell to United in a heartfelt post this evening, saying (via Iqbal’s Twitter) : “Emotions often cannot be expressed in words, however, I will try my best. Manchester United has been my home since I was 5 years old. Alongside my family, this club has developed me into the person that I am today. From the Cliff to Carrington and then to the Theatre of Dreams (OT), I have so many incredible memories of my fifteen years associated with this amazing club. I have had the opportunity to play with so many teammates, that I will now always call friends, and worked with coaches who always supported me in so many different ways.
“There are too many people to thank. Kitmen, physios, teachers, chefs, nutritionists, security staff, coaches and everyone else in between, they’ve all played their role in making me the player I am today. They know who they are and know how much they mean to me and my family. We’ll be forever grateful.
“The Academy is a special place that makes dreams come true for so many. That was certainly the case for me. I’ll never forget standing on the touchline at the Theatre of Dreams (OT), waiting to come on for my debut. That feeling of pride will live with me forever.
“Representing Manchester United in Europe is one of the biggest honours you can have in your career. People don’t realise the amount of work and dedication that goes into achieving a debut and living out your dream. The fans were amazing with me that day. You’ve always given such love and support to myself and my family. Trust me it did not go unnoticed or underappreciated.
“I’ll always be a United fan and I’ll always love this football club. The time is right to go and take on a new challenge. It is one that I cannot wait for and I’ll be applying myself with the same level of desire, determination and dedication that has taken me this far in my career. This is a perfect opportunity and I cannot wait to get started.”
It’s been a pleasure❤️ pic.twitter.com/dbJAJlSuE8
— zidane iqbal (@z10ane) June 22, 2023
