Joshua Zirkzee’s dream debut for Manchester United couldn’t have been more perfect. The Dutch striker, who joined the Red Devils from Bologna this summer, came off the bench in the second half of their opening Premier League game against Fulham and scored the winning goal in the 87th minute, securing a thrilling 1-0 victory.
Zirkzee, 23, described the experience as “unbelievable.” “A great feeling, it couldn’t be any better. What can I say? Debut, winning, scoring in front of the Stretford End, so yeah, it’s unbelievable,” he said after the match. “I mean yeah, first game, first goal, it’s always a relief to have that off your shoulders, but it goes on and we’re just going to work for the next game.”
The striker had a delayed start to his United career, missing all of the pre-season friendlies and the Community Shield due to an extended break following his participation in Euro 2024. However, his impact on his debut was immediate and impactful.
Zirkzee, who was visibly excited to join Erik ten Hag’s side after a successful spell with Bologna in Serie A, was clear about why he chose to move to Manchester United. “Why Manchester United? Some people might be crazy, but, for me, I mean this is the biggest club in the world, so it wasn’t a difficult choice to make to be honest.”
He will be working under the guidance of former United and Netherlands striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has returned to Old Trafford as part of Ten Hag’s coaching staff. “Yeah, it’s a privilege to have someone like that. As a striker, it’s not every day you have someone that you grew up watching, so yeah, that’s pretty much it, but everybody in the staff up to now has been great and I enjoy working with these people a lot. It’s not just him, but obviously it’s an extra privilege.”
Zirkzee’s goal not only secured three points for Manchester United but also provided a glimpse of the exciting potential he brings to the club. With a dream debut behind him, he will be looking to build on this success and make a significant contribution to United’s campaign this season.
