Ben Foster believes Joshua Zirkzee, Manchester United’s summer signing, wouldn’t last under Sir Alex Ferguson following his controversial reaction during United’s recent Premier League defeat to Newcastle.
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Zirkzee was hauled off in the 33rd minute with Manchester United already trailing by two goals. Manager Ruben Amorim made the tactical call, substituting Zirkzee for Kobbie Mainoo in an attempt to regain control in midfield alongside Christian Eriksen and Casemiro.
The Dutch forward, visibly frustrated, initially walked down the tunnel to the changing room but later returned to the bench. This move drew criticism from former United goalkeeper Ben Foster, who spent five years at the club.
“If Sir Alex Ferguson was the manager, that player would be done,” Foster said on his YouTube channel. “Walking straight to the dressing room after being subbed off? No chance. Fergie would not tolerate it.
Someone likely told him to return to the bench because it was a terrible look—the cameras caught it, and the fans were booing. It’s a horrible situation, but you can’t react like that.”
Foster empathized with the atmosphere but suggested Zirkzee became an unfair scapegoat. “United were struggling across the board; Zirkzee wasn’t the sole problem. But being subbed off that early makes him an easy target.”
Zirkzee has faced heavy scrutiny since his £36.5m move from Atalanta last summer, netting just three goals in 19 league games.
Former United legend Rio Ferdinand also weighed in, expressing sympathy for Zirkzee. “It’s tough to be subbed off so early.
My heart goes out to him. It’s gut-wrenching, especially with boos from the crowd. But this isn’t the end. We’ve seen great players recover from moments like this,” Ferdinand said.
Ferdinand urged the team, especially captain Bruno Fernandes, to rally around Zirkzee. “Bruno needs to lead by example, ensuring Zirkzee knows this isn’t the end of the road. The team as a whole isn’t performing well, and it’s unfair to single out one player.”
He also highlighted the need for patience with Amorim, saying, “The manager needs time to implement his ideas fully. Let’s judge him after a proper pre-season.”
Zirkzee’s situation has sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning whether he can bounce back from such a difficult start to life at Old Trafford.