Manchester United’s recent transfer activity has drawn sharp criticism, with former Match of the Day pundit Mark Lawrenson labeling one of their summer signings, Joshua Zirkzee, a “bit of a flop.”
The Red Devils brought in Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs De Ligt, and Zirkzee during the 2024 summer window, but the returns so far have been underwhelming.
French defender Yoro has been sidelined with an injury sustained in pre-season, while Mazraoui and De Ligt have become regulars in a team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League.
Zirkzee, the £36 million Dutch forward, has also seen plenty of action but has struggled to win over fans and critics alike.
Zirkzee made an instant impact by scoring on his Premier League debut in August but endured a lengthy three-month goal drought afterward.
While his recent brace in a 4-0 win over Everton and another goal in the 4-3 Carabao Cup loss to Tottenham hinted at improvement, Lawrenson remains skeptical.
“Joshua Zirkzee has been a bit of a flop since joining Manchester United,” Lawrenson told Paddy Power. “He’s been inconsistent, and with so much competition among the forwards, it’s hard to secure a place unless you’re outstanding.
That’s part of the bigger challenge Ruben Amorim faces as manager—he’s still trying to figure out his best XI.”
Amorim’s rotation policy hasn’t spared long-time United stalwart Marcus Rashford, who has been dropped from the starting lineup and appears ready to end his tenure at Old Trafford. Rashford recently admitted he was “ready” to move on, a sentiment echoed by Lawrenson.
“From his recent comments, it’s clear Rashford has made up his mind,” Lawrenson said. “He doesn’t seem interested anymore. Amorim might talk about giving him a new challenge within the club, but if Rashford’s heart isn’t in it, then it’s time for him to leave.”
Rashford’s dip in form is a mystery. After scoring over 30 goals in one season, his performances have steadily declined.
With suitors potentially losing interest, the January transfer window could be critical for both Rashford and United as they look to rebuild.
Amid these struggles, it’s evident that Amorim has a massive task ahead—managing an unsettled squad while trying to salvage a disappointing season.