Ruben Amorim, the former manager of Sporting Clube de Portugal, officially assumed his position as Manchester United’s new head coach last week. The 39-year-old replaces Erik ten Hag, who was dismissed after a disappointing start to the 2024/25 season. Amorim is set to make his managerial debut this weekend, with the team taking on Ipswich Town.
During the recent international break, Amorim focused on working with players who were not called up for their national teams. With the January transfer window nearing, rumors of dissatisfaction within the squad have begun to surface. According to reports from La Stampa, via Calcio Mercato, Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee is reportedly unhappy with his current situation at the club. The 23-year-old striker, who joined Manchester United this summer from Bologna in Serie A, is said to have instructed his representatives to explore the possibility of a move away from Old Trafford.
The reports suggest that Juventus, managed by Thiago Motta, could be a potential destination for Zirkzee. Motta is rumored to be a fan of the player, and a loan deal is reportedly the most likely outcome. Zirkzee is believed to be open to a temporary move to secure more regular playing time.
Zirkzee’s dissatisfaction may stem from his inability to maintain the momentum of his impressive debut for the club, where he scored against Fulham in the Premier League. Since then, he has managed just one goal and two assists in 17 appearances across all competitions this season.
As Amorim prepares for his first match in charge, he has expressed his determination to establish a clear and recognizable identity for the team. In his first interview as United boss, Amorim emphasized his vision for the club, promising fans a distinct style of play.
“You will see a clear idea on the pitch,” he stated. “Whether it’s to everyone’s liking or not, there will be a recognizable approach, a sense of positioning, and something reflective of the standards we want to achieve. You’ll feel it.”
Acknowledging the challenges he faces, especially with limited preparation time, Amorim added, “We’ve only had two training sessions before this first game, and this is the best league in the world. But one thing I can promise is that you will see an idea. That much, I can guarantee.”
The upcoming match against Ipswich Town will offer the first glimpse of Amorim’s vision for Manchester United, as the new manager seeks to bring stability and success to the club.
