Joshua Zirkzee: Dutchman ‘excited’ to join ‘best club in the world’ Manchester United
Updated 17/07/2024 at 19:01 GMT+1
Joshua Zirkzee is Manchester United's first signing of the summer after sealing a move from Bologna. Erik ten Hag is attempting to freshen up his squad after a frustrating season last time out, when they slumped to their worst ever Premier League finish. Zirkzee - who represented the Netherlands at Euro 2024 - says he is confident United's plans for future success will be achieved.
'Pure as you like' - Zirkzee thunders home to fire Bologna to victory over Lazio in Serie A
Video credit: TNT Sports
Joshua Zirkzee says he trusts the plans Manchester United have for the future after moving to Old Trafford on a five-year contract.
The Dutch striker has joined from Italian club Bologna in a deal worth around £36.5m.
Zirkzee featured twice at Euro 2024 for the Netherlands, including a late cameo against England in the semi-finals, when they were knocked out by Ollie Watkins’ stunning winner.
Having been in Germany for the tournament, Zirkzee has admitted to it being a “rollercoaster” few weeks - with the deal to take him to United being done in the background throughout his time on international duty.
He arrives in Manchester at a time when Erik ten Hag is attempting to freshen things up after their worst ever Premier League finish last term.
That disappointment was eased by their FA Cup triumph at Wembley, but fans and management are still demanding Ten Hag produces better results after his contract was extended.
Speaking to the club’s media team, Zirkzee said: "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."
Ten Hag will also be hoping Zirkzee can carry on the form from last season, which saw his stock continue to rise.
/origin-imgresizer.tntsports.io/2024/05/24/3974351-80662728-2560-1440.jpg)
‘Things looking really positive’ - Shaw delighted with Ten Hag’s new deal at Man Utd
Video credit: SNTV
He scored 12 times in all competitions for Bologna, which, if converted to United’s output during the last campaign, only puts him behind Rasmus Hojlund and Bruno Fernandes.
"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 excited,” he said.
United will play in the Community Shield against Manchester City on August 10, before featuring in the Premier League’s opening match of the season six days later, when they host Fulham at Old Trafford.
- Enzo Fernandez: Chelsea, Argentina player ‘truly sorry’ for posting 'racially offensive' video after Copa America win
- Leny Yoro: Smart, fast and comfortable on the ball - Why Manchester United target has shades of a young Raphael Varane
Contemplating the challenge ahead, Zirkzee said: "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."
Zirkzee is the first signing through the door this summer, with Leny Yoro expected to be the next addition.
discovery+ is the streaming home of the Olympic Games, and the only place you can watch every moment of Paris 2024 this summer.
Related Topics
Advertisement
Advertisement