New United boss Amorim is tasked with rebuilding Zirkzee’s form as the Dutch forward struggles to find the net after a dismal run of 15 goal-less matches.

Manchester United’s newly appointed manager Ruben Amorim has inherited a challenging task as he takes the reins at Old Trafford—restoring the confidence of underperforming forward Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch striker, who was brought in from Bologna for £36.5 million in the summer, has faced an alarming dip in form, managing just one goal in 16 appearances since his arrival.

Despite a promising start where Zirkzee scored a decisive winner as a second-half substitute on his debut against Fulham, the 23-year-old has since struggled to make an impact. His goal drought now stretches to 15 matches, leaving United fans questioning whether the hefty transfer fee was justified.

Zirkzee’s lack of confidence was painfully evident during United’s recent fixture against Leicester City, where he was handed a rare start by interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy. However, the young forward failed to impress, appearing sluggish and disconnected from the attack. This disappointing performance saw him relegated to the bench for the subsequent three matches, casting doubts over his long-term role in the squad.

Amorim, who arrived in Manchester amid high expectations, is now faced with the immediate challenge of getting Zirkzee back on track. The Portuguese manager is known for his tactical prowess and ability to rejuvenate players—qualities that United fans hope will translate into a revival of their misfiring striker. Amorim’s task will not be an easy one, as the Dutchman’s confidence appears to have hit rock bottom.

“It’s clear that Zirkzee has the talent,” said a source close to the club. “But right now, he’s struggling mentally. It’s not just about getting him fit; it’s about helping him believe in himself again.”

The former Bologna star was signed with the expectation that he would add a new dimension to United’s attack, following a successful season in Serie A where he scored 12 goals in 37 appearances. Yet, adapting to the physicality and pace of the Premier League has proven to be a much tougher challenge. His lack of goals is not just a personal concern but a symptom of United’s broader issues in front of goal this season, which has seen them slide down the table.

Amorim, however, remains optimistic about turning things around. In his introductory press conference, he emphasised his focus on building confidence within the squad and restoring a sense of belief. “Joshua is a player with immense potential,” Amorim stated. “It’s up to us to create the environment where he can thrive. Sometimes, all it takes is one goal to change everything.”

The Portuguese manager is known for his attacking philosophy and might consider a tactical tweak to better suit Zirkzee’s strengths. In his previous roles, Amorim favoured a fluid, high-pressing style that could potentially unlock the Dutchman’s capabilities if properly integrated into United’s system. Zirkzee, for his part, is keen to prove himself, acknowledging that he has yet to meet the expectations set for him.

The pressure is on both the player and the manager, especially as United looks to salvage a turbulent season. With the January transfer window looming, there are whispers of potential reinforcements being brought in if Zirkzee’s form does not improve. United are reportedly eyeing Viktor Gyökeres as a possible addition, which could either motivate Zirkzee to rise to the challenge or push him further down the pecking order.

Off the pitch, Zirkzee has also faced setbacks on the international front, recently being dropped from the Netherlands squad due to his poor form. The demotion was a blow for the young forward, who had hoped that international duty might provide a fresh start and a boost in confidence. Instead, it has added another layer of frustration to an already challenging period in his career.

In the coming weeks, Amorim is expected to experiment with different line-ups as he searches for the right formula to get the best out of Zirkzee and the rest of United’s underperforming squad. As the club braces for a crucial run of fixtures leading into the new year, all eyes will be on whether Amorim can reignite the spark in his Dutch forward.

United supporters are hopeful that the change in management could be the turning point Zirkzee needs. With Amorim’s reputation for nurturing young talents, there remains a glimmer of optimism that the 23-year-old can find his form and justify the faith United showed when they signed him