Manchester United signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £35.8m on a five-year deal with the option of a further year. It’s a deal that secures a young forward who a high ceiling in the European game and it gives Erik ten Hag something different in attack to work with next season.
Ten Hag wanted an attacking option who could link-up play and come deep to offer variety to Andre Onana’s different build-up variations. In turn, United should be able to transition up the pitch quicker and with more options, having multiple players comfortable on the ball.
I still look forward to hearing what new signings have to say in front of a camera when they join United. It’s the biggest club in the world and these young lads are living our childhood dreams.
On Wednesday, MUTV released Zirkzee’s first official interview with club media since announcing his transfer to United last week.
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Here’s what we learned about our new Dutch forward.
Zirkzee’s reasons for joining Manchester United
The Netherlands international becomes a Red on the back of an impressive season with Bologna. The 23-year-old made such an impression in Italy that he attracted interest from the likes of AC Milan, who were defeated by United in the race for Zirkzee’s signature.
The former Bayern Munich starlet will go on a short break following his Euro 2024 involvement, before returning to Manchester and preparing for the new season.
Outlining his reasons for joining United, Zirkzee told Steve Bartram of MUTV: “I have a lot of trust and a good feeling about this step. It wasn’t a difficult decision. I mean, I love Bologna a lot, but Manchester United just gave me a very, very good feeling.
“I’m confident that what’s planned will also happen.
“It’s been a rollercoaster, the past few weeks. Some very good experiences and I’m very happy to be here. Obviously, making a transfer to Manchester United is something very positive.
“I just can’t wait to get started and continue what I basically did last season. I’m just hoping to improve every day and do the best I can.”
After making his Netherlands debut at Euro 2024 this summer, Zirkzee says he is happy to be at United, adding: “I’m very happy to be here. I mean, it’s probably the biggest club in the world, so I can’t wait to get started and get to know everyone and start this journey. I’m very, very exited.
“I’m going on a short break. Try and relax a little bit and then get back to Manchester and get it going.
“Obviously, it [Old Trafford] is an insane stadium. I can’t wait to play in the stadium. Just very, very excited, very motivated.”
Two football icons who inspired him
Brazil legend and 2002 World Cup winner, Ronaldinho, was described as “for sure, my hero” during the interview for the way he entertained fans and played with a smile on his face.
Ironically, he almost joined United from Paris Saint-Germain in 2003, only to sign for Barcelona.
Ronaldinho also played for AC Milan, among other clubs, winning 97 caps for his country.
Zirkzee also likened himself to former United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who failed to sign him for AC Milan this summer.
“Zlatan was someone I really looked up to,” said Zirkzee.
The Swede scored 29 goals in 53 games during his short spell at Old Trafford.
Zirkzee admitted Ronaldinho was his favourite out of the two icons.
How childhood shaped Zirkzee
Born in Schiedam, Zirkzee would move with his family to Spijkenisse where he quickly became aware of the ‘Cruyff Courts’, which was a set of small pitches set up by Johann Cruyff’s Foundation.
“As a young boy growing up, playing mostly without tougher, bigger guys who are older than you, makes you adapt,” Zirkzee said.
“I think it’s something that you learn at a young age in Holland. Especially where I’m from, this was the case.”
Zirkzee took part in matches and would miss regular curfews set by his mum. He went on to joke: “I hope she forgives me now for all the times I came home late! Or if I broke something in the backyard or at home.
“So, eventually, it all worked out pretty well.
“But, yeah, that was just life back when I was younger.
“Play football, forget about the time and getting back home late. But it turned out pretty well.”
Facing Kobbie Mainoo at Euro 2024
Zirkzee was spotted speaking to United midfielder after coming on against England in the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany. He had this to say about our young midfielder: “Kobbie had a fantastic game. Played incredible. I was actually talking about it also on the bench. Like, ‘this guy is very, very good.”
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