Joshua Zirkzee is now at a real turning point in his young career; he has to ask himself some tough questions, does he stay and battle for a place at Manchester United or take the route back to Italy, where clubs like Juventus and Inter Milan continue to circle?
Despite a frustrating lack of minutes, just about 74 in the Premier League as of early October 2025 Zirkzee still enjoys the trust of Rúben Amorim. The United boss has praised the Dutchman’s work rate and versatility, saying, he wants to keep Josh because he gives everything.
In an earlier report Softfootball explained why Zirkzee must leave Manchester United but Amorim’s 3-4-3 setup often needs a creative link-up forward, and Zirkzee fits that “9.5” role quite naturally. When combined with runners like Bryan Mbeumo or Amad Diallo, his technical play helps knit United’s attack together. Staying put gives him the platform to grow, prove doubters wrong, and maybe, finally, force his way into Amorim’s long-term plans.
In the short term, the forward is not clearly a starting member currently and will most likely start their next match, which is against Liverpool, on the bench; the club even revealed via their official X account that they will be playing that game at Anfield in their white third kit.
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Still, Serie A remains tempting. Juventus, Inter, and Napoli have all kept tabs on him since his breakout season at Bologna in 2023/24. A move back to Italy would surely guarantee more playing time and a clearer shot at the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands. But it’s not without risk; another move so soon could make him look like he’s running from the challenge.
So far this season, Zirkzee’s been on the fringes, just 82 minutes across all competitions, unused in four of seven league games. Amorim has favoured Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha, and even young Chido Obi. Sesko was even pivotal in Manchester United’s last victory against Sunderland as he begins to find his scoring form at the expense of the Netherlands international. Yet, he’s been firm that Zirkzee remains part of his project.
Leaving might bring comfort and game time, but staying could define his career. For now, the smart move is to fight. But if minutes don’t come by January, a loan back to Italy may start to look like the wiser call.
