Frank Christian
Ruben Amorim has had a hectic first week as the new head coach of Manchester United at Old Trafford.
To kick off his tenure, he quickly overhauled his coaching lineup, bringing in important personnel from Sporting CP while parting ways with interim assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy.
At just 39 years old, Amorim now has the considerable challenge of enhancing United’s performance after a rocky start to the Premier League season.
With only four victories in 11 matches, his team currently sits in 14th place in the EPL, prepping for his first match against Ipswich Town on November 24.
In the upcoming weeks, Amorim is expected to alter both United’s formation and style of play as he aims to elevate several underperforming players to meet his expectations.
Among the players in focus is Dutch international Joshua Zirkzee, frequently cited as a key target for Amorim.
Zirkzee made a £36.5m ($46m) transfer to Manchester from Bologna in July after scoring 11 goals in Serie A for the 2023/24 season, helping his team secure its first UEFA Champions League spot.
However, despite netting a goal in his Premier League debut against Fulham, he hasn’t managed to score since, affecting his confidence.
The 23-year-old was also sidelined by Ronald Koeman during the Netherlands’ recent 4-0 UEFA Nations League victory over Hungary.
According to the Daily Mirror, Zirkzee’s self-esteem has hit a low point, with Koeman expressing concern leading up to the current international camp.
Improving Zirkzee’s performance will be a priority for Amorim, but former Dutch player Wim Kieft has warned that the circumstances might be beyond repair.
“I’m worried about Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Manchester United. He was signed by Erik ten Hag, yet he hasn’t made an impact and may not be suited for the top level,” he said.
“With a new manager in place, if Ruben Amorim deems him inadequate or ineffective, Zirkzee might face tough times ahead.”
As Koeman’s squad gears up for their final Nations League match of 2024 against Bosnia & Herzegovina on November 19, United supporters are hopeful that Zirkzee will contribute in Zenica.
