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Former Juventus, Real Madrid and England manager Fabio Capello has attributed Joshua Zirkzee’s troubles at Manchester United to the intensity and speed of the Premier League.
Zirkzee arrived in the summer from Bologna as the club’s first signing.
It’s believed that United and Bologna reached an agreement at around the £36.5million mark.
Zirkzee had a fairytale start to life with the Red Devils, as he came on from the bench to score a sensational late winner in the club’s victory over Fulham on the opening weekend of the campaign.
However, in United’s next two matches against Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool – both of which ended in defeats – Zirkzee failed to find the back of the net and seemed to struggle.
Against Liverpool especially, the Dutch striker was one of his side’s poorest performers. He missed two big chances that could have perhaps changed the game for the Red Devils.
Zirkzee also lost all 10 duels he contested for, both on the ground and aerially.
Speaking with Corriere della Serra (via The Mirror), Capello explained that Federico Chiesa – who joined Liverpool from Juventus – has the natural attributes to succeed in England but Zirkzee does not.
Capello said, “I think he [Chiesa] has the right speed to play in the Premier League.”
“Elsewhere, I saw Zirkzee who is having great difficulty because he thinks he can still play at the Italian pace.”
Capello’s words may lead to concerns among a section of the United fanbase. However, Zirkzee did enjoy a brilliant international break with the Netherlands that saw him score on his first start. He also registered an assist.
While the 23-year-old still has plenty to improve on, there is plenty to like about what he can offer at the moment.
Zirkzee has the chance to make amends for his Liverpool display when United return to action this weekend against Southampton.
Rasmus Hojlund has been ruled out of the clash as he continues with his recovery from an injury and there is a strong chance Zirkzee will lead the line for the Red Devils at St Mary’s.
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