Erik ten Hag reveals Man Utd’s reason for signing Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee, according to Erik ten Hag, was bought by Manchester United because he provides a new kind of danger up front and tactical versatility, which the team needs as it attempts to build on its FA Cup victory from the previous season.
The Red Devils had a challenging 2023–24 season, losing in the group stages of the Champions League and finishing last in the Premier League ever. Their 19 losses across all competitions, however, lessened the impact of their FA Cup final victory over District. rivals Manchester City.

The victory guaranteed Chelsea’s elimination from the Europa League this season, and Ten Hag’s contract was extended in an attempt by INEOS to support the former Ajax coach rather than take his place.
Although United has attempted to sign center backs Matthijs de Ligt, Jerad Branthwaite, and Lenny Euro through a number of transfers, signing Zirkzee, 23, was their first major acquisition.

Ten Hag is optimistic that Zierzky, who earned his Netherlands debut at Euro 2024, would provide a new dynamism to the United assault that was spearheaded by Rasmus Hoglund the previous season. Zierzky has a five-year deal at Old Trafford.
“He’s a player who can tie the game,” Ten Hag said to reporters following United’s preseason loss to Rosenborg. “Who can dribble, be creative, have good ideas, hold the ball, be available, and create combinations.”

We’re constantly searching for something different, so this provides us additional tactical options, which is fantastic since we have several players, especially up front, who can play very direct and can really benefit from his skills.
Ten Hag acknowledged that Zirkzee’s transfer gives United the depth the team sorely needs, particularly considering how the team battled at times last season owing to a slew of ailments.

“I believe we demonstrated our ability to defeat the world’s top team during the final game of the season,” he stated. “So we already have a good team and we achieve a high level when everyone is ready.”However, we secretly understand that we require additional players. There will be no winter break, more games in a season, and more intense games overall, especially this season with the new model and format for Europe.” January is a highly busy month.
“Dependent team members are necessary. Then, survival of the fittest becomes increasingly important.”