Manchester United’s impressive 2–0 victory over Manchester City came without Joshua Zirkzee, with the forward forced to watch from the directors’ box at Old Trafford.
The Dutch attacker was absent from the matchday squad due to a minor injury picked up in United’s previous outing against Brighton, a setback that ruled him out of what proved to be a landmark afternoon under interim head coach Michael Carrick.
Knock rules Zirkzee out of derby
Joshua Zirkzee suffered the knock during the Brighton game and was deemed unfit to feature against City. Club sources have since confirmed the injury is not considered serious.
Zirkzee watched on as United delivered one of their most controlled derby performances in recent years, limiting City to a single shot on target and seeing three goals ruled out for offside. It marked Carrick’s first game in interim charge and a statement result.
When Patrick Dorgu scored late on to seal the win, Zirkzee was spotted celebrating alongside Matthijs de Ligt, Tom Heaton, Tyler Fredricson and Shea Lacey.
Expected short absence
Zirkzee was later filmed speaking to supporters outside Old Trafford, suggesting he expects to be sidelined for around two weeks. That timeline would see him return before the January transfer window closes, though his immediate future remains uncertain.
The 24-year-old endured a frustrating spell under former head coach Ruben Amorim, during which he grew unhappy with limited minutes, despite being viewed internally as a useful squad option.
Transfer interest remains
Zirkzee has been open to the idea of a January move in search of regular football, and Roma have been monitoring his situation.
Roma sporting director Frédéric Massara recently acknowledged the interest but stressed United’s stance had been firm.
“There are still 15 days left of the transfer window and we’ll try to be ready for any opportunities,” Massara told Sky Sports Italia. “But Manchester United said no quite clearly a couple of weeks ago and they have not changed their minds.”
With the window closing on 2 February, Zirkzee’s recovery timeline could theoretically allow a late move — provided United sanction his departure.
United’s attacking depth
United’s senior forward options currently include Benjamin Šeško, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Amad Diallo and Zirkzee himself.
Šeško missed time earlier in the season with a knee injury, while Cunha has already sat out three matches, underlining why United may be reluctant to thin their attacking ranks.
Zirkzee has made 16 appearances in all competitions this season, and his role under Carrick could become clearer once he returns to full fitness.
Key Insights
- Joshua Zirkzee missed the derby due to a minor injury from the Brighton game.
- The forward expects to be sidelined for around two weeks.
- He watched United’s 2–0 win from the directors’ box.
- Roma remain interested, but United have so far said no.
- United’s limited forward depth could influence any transfer decision.
What’s Next
Zirkzee’s fitness will be reassessed in the coming days, with a return expected before the end of the month. Whether that coincides with renewed transfer talks or a fresh opportunity under Carrick remains to be seen.
Should Manchester United keep Joshua Zirkzee for squad depth, or allow him to leave if Roma return with a late January move?
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