Gullit Says Zirkzee Should've Stayed in Serie A, Not United's Bench

Gullit argues Zirkzee should have stayed in Serie A

Netherlands legend Ruud Gullit believes Joshua Zirkzee’s move from Bologna to Manchester United was a misstep, arguing that Serie A would have offered him regular minutes and a clearer path to the Dutch World Cup squad this summer.

Zirkzee has not started a Premier League game for United in the first 11 league fixtures this season, as injuries to Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha briefly opened the door for him to start against Everton, Crystal Palace and West Ham United.

However, his return to the starting XI did not last long, as he failed to start the last eight consecutive matches. The returns of Bryan Mbome and Amad Diallo from AFCON, along with United's exit from the FA Cup, have intensified competition for places with 17 league games left this season.

Gullit argues that Zirkzee should move to Roma or another Italian club to secure regular playing time and remain in the Netherlands' World Cup picture this summer.

Roma have held talks with the player, but United paused any deals this month after coach Ruben Amorim’s departure, according to Federico Masara, the club’s sporting director. Michael Carrick is in charge until the end of the season, with a permanent manager to be appointed in the summer.

Gullit has long questioned Zirkzee's prospects at Old Trafford, believing the move there was a mistake. He argues the transfer to United was not ideal, and Bologna's form suggested a better Italian move was possible.

He noted Roma's possible interest and suggested that staying in the Italian league would have been better; Bologna had shown he could perform and deserved a move to a stronger Italian club.

Gullit added that United needs to understand the situation there; the energy at the club has not been good, and the atmosphere has not looked comfortable at all.

He continued: look at Scott McTominay. It’s remarkable what he’s doing since leaving Old Trafford. Playing regularly every game is crucial.

Punchline 1: If Zirkzee signs for Roma, at least he’ll be fluent in meatballs and never in doubt about his role as a starter.

Punchline 2: And if United finally figures out the energy at Old Trafford, perhaps they’ll discover the recipe for starting regularly instead of warming the bench.