Ruud Gullit's push for Joshua Zirkzee to quit Manchester United and return to Serie A raises the chance of a January move and regular starts. Punters might back Zirkzee to score at a new Italian club or adjust markets involving United’s goalscoring options — his departure could shorten United’s odds on finding a consistent striker and shift bets toward Serie A scoring markets.
Gullit urges Joshua Zirkzee to quit Manchester United this January
Ruud Gullit has publicly urged Joshua Zirkzee to seek a January exit from Manchester United after limited opportunities this season. Zirkzee started only once in United’s opening 11 league matches and, despite filling in during an injury crisis, has not started in the last eight games. With competition intensifying from returning players and only 17 fixtures remaining, regular first-team football is under threat.
Playing time, World Cup hopes and transfer interest
Zirkzee is understood to be eager for regular minutes to keep his place in contention for the Netherlands squad ahead of the World Cup. Roma opened talks over a potential move, but negotiations stalled following a managerial change and United calling off proposed deals. Michael Carrick is currently in temporary charge, with a permanent manager expected in the summer.
Gullit: Serie A would suit Zirkzee
Gullit expressed doubt that the move to Manchester United was the right step for Zirkzee and suggested a return to Italy would be better for his development. "I think he should have stayed in Serie A," he said, adding that playing consistently for a strong Italian side would benefit the forward. Gullit cited examples of players flourishing after leaving Old Trafford to underline the importance of regular starts.
Form, statistics and squad dynamics
Zirkzee’s form has been mixed: he scored seven goals and provided three assists after his £37m move from Bologna last season but has managed just two goals so far this term. The returns of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo from the Africa Cup of Nations, alongside fierce competition for attacking places, make his path to consistent starts uncertain.
Transfer outlook and what this means for bettors
With reported willingness from Zirkzee to move in January and prior interest from Serie A clubs, a loan or permanent switch remains plausible before the window closes. For bettors, this news has immediate implications: consider markets where Zirkzee is listed as a scorer for an Italian club, or short-term futures such as "player to score in next five matches" if regular starts are expected. Conversely, his exit could shift United-focused markets — odds on United finding a reliable striker or on total team goals may be adjusted as squads change. Monitor confirmed transfer updates and starting lineup announcements before placing wagers.
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Ruud Gullit has told the Manchester United star to leave Old Trafford and secure a move to Italy late in the January transfer window.
Metro
