Harry Maguire has expressed his support for Joshua Zirkzee, assuring the forward that his teammates and fans stand firmly behind him despite rumors of a January departure from Manchester United.
Zirkzee joined United from Bologna last summer in a £36.5 million deal but has faced a challenging start at Old Trafford.
With just four goals and two assists in 29 appearances, his struggles were highlighted during a 2-0 loss to Newcastle, where he was substituted after only 33 minutes. The Dutch forward’s reaction—storming down the tunnel—led to backlash from fans and pundits and intensified speculation about his future.
Juventus has reportedly shown interest in Zirkzee, potentially reuniting him with former Bologna coach Thiago Motta. However, his fortunes may have turned after a match-winning display against Arsenal in the FA Cup. Coming off the bench, Zirkzee secured victory by scoring the decisive penalty in a thrilling shootout.
After the game, Maguire praised Zirkzee, calling him an “unfortunate casualty” of the Newcastle defeat. “I’ve experienced tough times at this club, but the fans always stick with you,” the England defender said.
“During the Newcastle game, anyone could have been subbed off; we were all poor in that first half hour. Josh was just unlucky to be the one chosen.”
Maguire clarified that Zirkzee’s substitution was tactical, with Kobbie Mainoo coming on and changing the game. “It wasn’t about Josh’s performance, and he knows that.
Scoring the winning penalty showed his character. The team had full faith in him because that’s the kind of player he is.”
While talk of Zirkzee’s departure has quietened, goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has faced similar scrutiny. A poor showing in the Carabao Cup against Tottenham drew heavy criticism, but Bayindir redeemed himself with a standout performance against Arsenal.
His crucial saves, including stopping Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz in the shootout, were instrumental in United’s victory.
“When you play for this club, the highs and lows are extreme,” Maguire said about Bayindir. “You’ll have bad games where everyone turns on you, but in good games, you’re seen as the best in your position. You have to stay level-headed.”
Maguire highlighted Bayindir’s critical saves, particularly a late one against Declan Rice. “He showed why he’s here tonight. Despite his disappointment after the Spurs game, we see his quality in training. He’s a great, experienced goalkeeper, and I’m really pleased for him.”
Both Zirkzee and Bayindir have demonstrated their resilience under pressure, reaffirming their value to Manchester United in a crucial FA Cup clash.