Zirkzee takes responsibility for limited minutes at Manchester United

Abdullateef Fowewe

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has accepted accountability for his restricted role at the club, stating that he must improve his performances to force his way into the starting lineup under manager Michael Carrick.

Speaking after scoring the winning goal for the Netherlands in a 2-1 Nations League victory over Serbia, Zirkzee addressed the intense competition for places at Old Trafford.

“There is a lot of competition. The manager makes the choices. At the moment, the choice is that I mainly come on as a substitute,” he said.

“Ultimately, I have to do something about that myself, but it isn’t easy either. I have to keep working every day and prove myself. I have to fight my way into the starting lineup.”

The 25-year-old Dutch striker has struggled for consistent game time this season, making just four appearances across all competitions for a total of around 70 minutes.

He has largely been restricted to substitute roles amid competition from other forwards in Carrick’s squad.

Zirkzee, who joined Manchester United in 2024, previously sought regular football and explored exits in both the January and summer transfer windows.

The club informed him he remained a needed squad option.

His recent late call-up to the Netherlands team under coach Xavi Hernández as a replacement for the injured Brian Brobbey — provided a boost.

Coming off the bench against Serbia, he scored the decisive goal and later noted the surprise of his selection given his club minutes.