Carrick ready to resurrect Joshua Zirkzee’s Manchester United career after failed transfer exit

Michael Carrick is ready to bring Joshua Zirkzee back into his Manchester United plans after the Dutch striker failed to secure a move away from Old Trafford before the transfer window closed.

Zirkzee was expected to leave United this summer after struggling to establish himself since joining the club in 2024. However, with the 25-year-old now set to remain in Manchester until at least January, Carrick has indicated he could have an important role to play as the season gathers pace.

The former England international has not used Zirkzee so far this campaign, but his stance appears to have shifted following the collapse of the forward’s attempts to find a new club. Carrick believes the striker can provide valuable depth during a demanding period of the season.

“For sure Josh is important, for the team, for the squad depth. Josh is happy here and I have a really good relationship with him. He wants to play more than he has, so that’s good healthy competition.

“We have lots of games coming up, we have a shorter period between games, Josh can do some really top things, I’ve seen it myself.”

Zirkzee’s move falls through

Zirkzee’s future remained uncertain throughout the summer, with Serie A giants Juventus among the clubs linked with a temporary move for the Netherlands international.

Juventus had reportedly explored the possibility of taking him on loan, but no formal offer materialised before the deadline. Instead, the Italian club turned their attention to Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade.

Everton were another club believed to be interested in Zirkzee after their proposed deal for Folarin Balogun collapsed late in the window. United, however, rejected a loan package from the Toffees, leaving Zirkzee with no route out of Old Trafford before the deadline.

His failure to secure a transfer means he will now have to fight for opportunities under Carrick, who appears increasingly willing to give him a chance to revive his United career.

Nine goals in 71 appearances

Zirkzee’s time at United has been underwhelming despite working with several managers since his arrival.

The Dutchman has made 71 appearances for the Red Devils across all competitions, scoring only nine goals and providing four assists. None of the managers he has played under have managed to consistently unlock the form that convinced United to sign him.

His lack of regular starts has also raised questions about his long-term future, particularly with competition for places in United’s attacking department.

Yet Carrick’s latest comments offer Zirkzee an opportunity to reset his season rather than immediately prepare for another transfer when the window reopens in January.

Carrick sees value in Zirkzee

With United facing a congested fixture schedule, Carrick believes Zirkzee’s ability can become increasingly useful. The manager’s comments suggest that the striker will not simply remain on the fringes of the squad but could be given opportunities as United navigate a demanding run of matches.

Carrick also stressed the importance of competition within the squad, with Zirkzee eager to earn more playing time.

The striker must now turn that opportunity into performances. After an inconsistent spell since his arrival, Zirkzee has another chance to demonstrate why United invested in him and convince Carrick that he can become a meaningful part of the team.

For now, his immediate future is settled. Zirkzee will remain at Old Trafford until at least January, and Carrick appears ready to give the Dutch forward another opportunity to force his way into Manchester United’s plans.