Manchester United put in a statement performance to win 4-0 against Rosenborg, and an intriguing Joshua Zirkzee development has happened.
After a poor performance against Wrexham raised a lot of questions about his suitability, Joshua Zirkzee bounced back vs Rosenborg.
He assisted Shea Lacey’s goal in the first half, scored a magical goal in the second half, and was very influential in linking up the play and getting Man Utd forward.
After watching him against the Norwegians, one thing is clear. Zirkzee can have a unique role to play under Michael Carrick this season.
What is your INSTANT REACTION as Manchester United beat Rosenborg 5-0
Who impressed you most and why?
Joshua Zirkzee, the European specialist
A common theme emerges when comparing Zirkzee vs Wrexham to how he performed against Rosenborg.
When the Dutchman is given space and time on the ball, he becomes a joy to watch, weaving about with the technical excellence of someone enjoying a kickabout in his back garden.
On the other hand, when the opposition is physical, Zirkzee tends to shrink, paving the way for needless giveaways and getting caught on the ball.
It’s not a coincidence that his poor performance came against a team that plays in the Championship, and the good one came against a European side.
The physicality of English football makes him unsuited to the league, but in a season where United play in four competitions, his European skill set translates pretty well.
If he can be relied upon to deputise for European games without a marked drop in quality, the “European specialist” role increases his importance at Old Trafford.
Zirkzee’s role changes his Man Utd transfer prospects
Zirkzee’s performances in his two years at the club don’t warrant a longer stay, but this season is a unique challenge for Carrick.
Should Manchester United KEEP or SELL Joshua Zirkzee in summer 2026?
If he’s able to establish himself as a European specialist, then that immediately turns him from “we need to sell” to “we are open to offers”.
At that point, you just see what offers arrive for him, but there’s no need to sanction deals like loan-to-buy, or cut-price transfers.
That also saves some spending on a backup striker, who would probably have the same role as Zirkzee will be performing.
Sesko’s role as the league No. 9 is set, and Zirkzee, as it stands, looks like a worthy bet to test out in Europe, or with runners around him in cup competitions.
With multiple games coming up against non-English opposition, the opportunity is there for Zirkzee to settle into this specialist role.
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