AFCON 2025
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has revealed why he took off Joshua Zirkzee before halftime in the team’s loss to Newcastle.
The Dutchman was taking off on the 33rd minute after Newcastle raced to a 2-0 lead at Old Trafford before the half hour mark.
Alexander Isak and Joelinton both scored headers via crosses from the left flank to put Newcastle ahead in the match.
The home fans reportedly booed Zirkzee as he walked out of the pitch and raced to the dressing room probably to shed a tear.
Amorim, speaking after the defeat to the Toon Army explained that he took off Zirkzee because he felt the forward was struggling as well as the team.
He added that he wanted an extra midfielder to help the team gain control of the ball. Hence, the introduction of Kobbie Mainoo.
“You have to think about the team, and also sometimes about the player as the player was suffering”.
“I felt the team was suffering and needed another midfielder, that’s it”.
Joshua Zirkzee has struggled to impress at the club since his arrival from Bologna in the summer.
The 24-year-old forward has played 19 times in the league this season with three goals and an assist.
