Zirkzee drops bombshell: I am staying at Manchester United no matter what

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Joshua Zirkzee has informed Manchester United that he wants to remain at the club for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, despite widespread speculation linking the Dutch forward with a January loan move back to Serie A.

According to a report by The Sun, the 24-year-old striker has expressed his clear desire to stay at Old Trafford beyond Monday’s transfer deadline, rejecting potential opportunities elsewhere even as his playing time has diminished.

Zirkzee, who joined United from Bologna in the summer of 2024 for approximately €40 million on a five-year contract (running until 2029), has struggled to establish himself consistently in the Premier League.

This season he has featured sparingly, scoring only a handful of goals amid stiff competition for forward positions and a recent injury layoff (muscular strain).

He recently returned to training under interim or new head coach Michael Carrick, who has indicated the player is working his way back to fitness but has not yet appeared in a matchday squad under the current regime.

The timing of Zirkzee’s decision comes after a turbulent period at the club. Earlier in January, following the sacking of manager Ruben Amorim, advanced talks for a loan to AS Roma collapsed when United reportedly closed the door on outgoing transfers for the player.

Juventus had also shown interest in a dry loan deal as an alternative to their pursuit of Randal Kolo Muani, but United appear unwilling to sanction a mid-season exit.

Instead, the club sanctioned the loan exit of young striker Joe Hugill to Kilmarnock while holding firm on Zirkzee, signaling confidence in his long-term potential despite current challenges. Carrick has publicly acknowledged Zirkzee’s return to training positively, noting it marks the first sessions under his watch.

Zirkzee’s commitment reflects a willingness to fight for his place in a crowded attacking line-up that includes established options and recent additions.

His physical presence (1.93m), link-up play, and versatility have drawn praise, though critics point to inconsistent output and duels in the Premier League’s intensity.

With the January window closing imminently, Zirkzee’s stance simplifies United’s squad planning and avoids further disruption.

Success will now depend on regaining full fitness, adapting to Carrick’s system, and seizing limited opportunities to rebuild confidence and minutes.