Zidane Iqbal would consider loan move away from Manchester United

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United midfielder Zidane Iqbal would consider a loan move but he’s focused on grasping his pre-season chance under Erik ten Hag.

The 19-year-old has impressed in Ten Hag’s first two games in charge against Liverpool and Melbourne Victory.

The two-time Iraq international has been introduced at half-time and played in midfield alongside his good friend and fellow academy graduate Charlie Savage on both occasions.

The pair have shined on the Reds’ Tour 22 and Iqbal is keen to build on making his Manchester United debut which came against Young Boys in the Champions League back in December.

Zidane Iqbal would consider loan move

The talented midfielder believes that the pre-season tour might be his only chance to make his mark under the Dutchman and admits he would weigh up the “pros and cons” of a loan move for the 2022-23 season.

Speaking via the Guardian, Iqbal said: “I have told myself: ‘this could be the only chance I get in the first team.”

Iqbal is more than grasping his opportunity and his performances are more than warranting of further opportunities under a manager who is more than willing to place his trust in youth.

United’s number 55 has brought calmness and quality to the midfield and he has constantly been demanding the ball off senior teammates.

In his two pre-season appearances so far, Iqbal bamboozled and left Fabinho for dead before throwing out a Maradona pirouette against Melbourne Victory.

His confidence is evidently soaring and he’s more than giving Ten Hag food for thought.

Iqbal is more than willing to take risks and try adventurous passes in midfield and those qualities are only likely to endear himself further to Ten Hag – who wants to implement an expansive philosophy at Old Trafford.

Speaking about his style of play, Iqbal added: “It has been part of my game since I was young, always wanting the ball.

“I just do what I do and whatever is meant to be will be. I will have no regrets.”

While United’s Premier League opener comes in three weeks time, the Football League kicks off in two weeks time.

If Ten Hag decides that Iqbal’s development would be aided by regular first team senior football away from Old Trafford, via a loan move, then the teenager will consider his options.

Iqbal concluded: “If an opportunity came up to go out on loan, I would weigh up the pros and cons.

“Right now it is too early to say. See what the future holds.”