WHAT HAPPENED?
After Patrick Dorgu found Zirkzee with a long ball inside the box, the Dutch striker skillfully brought it under control. He then showed some silky footwork as rolled the ball beneath his studs to beat Igor Zubeldia and drilled in a low cross back into the danger area. Hojlund, who had found space to take a shot, attempted to guide the ball towards the far post. However, his effort drifted narrowly wide, leaving United inches away from extending their lead.
WHAT THE FANS ARE SAYING
Despite the missed opportunity, fans were left in awe of Zirkzee’s technical brilliance, likening his movement to that of a prime Zidane.
@AmorimEra_ wrote: “Zirkzee I am on my feet applauding. This is Manchester United’s best attacker after Amad.”
@privilege_mufc lauded: “Zirkzee is such an intelligent footballer.”
@AbsoluteBruno seconded and wrote: “Joshua Zirkzee plays football with a certain finesse to him, insanely tidy footballer.”
@utdbrxy wrote: “soo good to see zirkzee full of confidence. what a player.”
Whereas, @imzispoms wrote: “ZIRKZEE IS SO GOOD AT FOOTBALL OMG.”
ZIRKZEE IS SO GOOD AT FOOTBALL OMG pic.twitter.com/wAc3RT7siH
— zispoms (@imzispoms)
March 13, 2025
THE BIGGER PICTURE
United sealed their passage to the Europa League quarter-finals with an emphatic 5-2 aggregate victory over Real Sociedad at Old Trafford on Thursday evening. Bruno Fernandes was the Player of the Match as the Red Devils skipper scored a fine hat-trick, with two of his goals coming from spot kicks. Troubles mounted for the Spanish side after Jon Aramburu was sent off for bringing down Patrick Dorgu, and Diogo Dalot wrapped it up with a fine strike in stoppage time.
DID YOU KNOW?
After making the switch from Bologna last summer, Zirkzee has struggled to bring out his best football at Old Trafford. Although he has been a frequent presence in Rúben Amorim’s starting lineup, his output in front of goal has been limited, with just six goals and two assists. Zirkzee was even dropped by Ronald Koeman from the latest Netherlands squad as he was deemed “not good enough”. However, his performance against Sociedad should serve as a massive morale booster.
WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?
With their European journey still alive, United will now shift their focus back to domestic action where they are set to face Leicester City on Sunday evening, in their final fixture before the international break.