Struggling Star Deemed “Not Good Enough” for National Team as Questions Loom Over His Future at Old Trafford
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has come under fire from Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman, who delivered a blunt assessment of the 23-year-old’s form, stating he is not currently good enough to earn a call-up to the national team.
Zirkzee, who joined the Red Devils last summer in a €42.5 million move from Bologna, has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford. In 42 appearances across all competitions, the Dutchman has managed just six goals and two assists, failing to live up to the expectations that accompanied his high-profile transfer.
Despite recently regaining his place in Manchester United’s starting lineup, Zirkzee’s performances have not impressed Koeman. The Netherlands boss left him out of the preliminary squad for the upcoming international fixtures, citing concerns over his technical abilities.
“Zirkzee wasn’t in the preliminary selection because I don’t think he’s good enough at the moment,” Koeman said. “Especially scanning when turning or passing, he often goes wrong. Yes, in principle, form and fitness are always leading, but that is not always possible. We have a lot of central defenders and midfielders, but we are somewhat limited up front. Even then, I still think that you have to earn your selection, and I think he doesn’t deserve that now.”
Koeman’s harsh critique is supported by data from analytics firm SciSports, which ranks Zirkzee as one of the weakest passers among attacking midfielders in the Premier League this season. His struggles have fueled speculation that Manchester United may already be considering cutting their losses on the former Bayern Munich prospect.
With an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €48.3 million, United could recoup much of their initial investment if they decide to sell Zirkzee. However, for now, manager Ruben Amorim has been forced to rely on the Dutchman due to a severe injury crisis that has plagued the squad for much of the season.
Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, with rumors swirling about a potential summer exit. For the Netherlands, Koeman’s comments suggest that the striker has a long way to go to prove himself worthy of a place in the Oranje setup.
As the season draws to a close, Zirkzee faces a critical period to turn his fortunes around. Whether he can silence his critics and secure his place at both club and international level remains to be seen, but for now, the pressure is mounting on the young forward to deliver.
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