Zidane Iqbal needs to leave Manchester United on loan in January

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Manchester United youngster Zidane Iqbal was one of the stars of pre-season, impressing in every opportunity he received.

This included strong performances against Premier League sides, including Liverpool. While only pre-season, it felt like Manchester United were unearthing a star.

Iqbal still has a high upside, but the first few months of the season have tempered some of the excitement surrounding his situation.

The 19-year-old has not played a single minute this campaign, and missed out on an opportunity in the Carabao Cup last week.

It’s possible Iqbal could have a part to play in the fourth round match set to be played on December 21 against Burnley.

The World Cup leaves United a little light in midfield for this game, and Iqbal should be part of the squad.

Regardless, Iqbal will need to leave on loan in January, once the full cohort of players returns. All players require game time to develop, and under-21 football is not enough for the midfielder.

Fortunately the ideal loan situation for Iqbal may be ready to present itself, thanks to former assistant boss Michael Carrick.

Iqbal to Middlesbrough on loan would be a good opportunity

Carrick took over as Middlesbrough manager last month. The team sit 16th, just four points back from the play-off spot.

The former England international will look to add his own input on the squad in January, his first transfer window in charge, and it makes sense he will turn to Manchester United and the possibility of a loan deal or two.

Zidane Iqbal would certainly benefit from following Hannibal and Amad to the Championship to test himself.

Carrick would be the ideal manager to tutor him and help him develop his game, United know they can trust him.

The teenager made his debut almost a year ago in the Champions League against Young Boys, and while he has made the bench several times this season, he is yet to make another competitive appearances since.

He needs the loan move to push himself, and come back for next pre-season even better.