"He's Not Good Enough!" – £37m Man United Star Dropped from National Team as Manager Reveals Two Major Flaws in the Player's Assessment
Ronald Koeman delivers a harsh verdict on Manchester United’s £37m striker, questioning his form and decision-making as he leaves him out of the Netherlands squad.
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has been left out of the Netherlands squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, with manager Ronald Koeman delivering a brutal assessment of his recent performances.
Despite regularly featuring in the Dutch squad since making his senior debut at Euro 2024, the 23-year-old striker has been left out this time. Koeman justified his decision by claiming that Zirkzee simply does not deserve a call-up at the moment.
Speaking to Studio Voetbal, the Dutch coach stated:
“He wasn’t in the preliminary selection because I don’t think he’s good enough at the moment. Especially when it comes to scanning, turning, or passing – these things often go wrong.”
Koeman further explained that while he considers current form and fitness when selecting players, a call-up must always be earned, and Zirkzee has not done enough to secure his spot in the squad.
Since joining United from Bologna for £36.5 million last summer, Zirkzee has failed to make a significant impact. His numbers in the Premier League are concerning:
- 3 goals in 28 games
- Just 25 total shots (less than one per game)
With such low attacking output, it’s no surprise that Koeman has opted to leave him out of the squad.
Manchester United as a whole are having a disappointing campaign. They have scored just 34 goals in 28 league matches, putting them on course for their worst-ever Premier League goal tally.
Their league position is equally concerning. Last season, under Erik ten Hag, United finished eighth, which was their worst finish in the Premier League era. This season, under new manager Ruben Amorim, they have fallen to 14th place.
Despite Koeman’s comments, United boss Ruben Amorim has defended Zirkzee, insisting the striker is improving.
“I think some players are improving individually. Josh is changing his position slightly, and I see progress in his game.”
However, progress alone may not be enough. With United struggling for goals and Zirkzee failing to deliver, he will need to step up his performances if he wants to regain his place in the Dutch national team.
