𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 | Joshua Zirkzee will miss the rest of the season due to injury

Joshua Zirkzee suffered a significant setback during Manchester United’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to Newcastle, as he has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury. The news comes as a blow to the squad, with United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim, confirming the extent of the injury during a press conference leading up to the crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon.

Zirkzee’s exit from the match was marked by visible distress, as he limped off the field, clearly upset by his inability to continue playing. “He is out for the season,” Amorim stated. “We will need to focus on preparing him for the next one. He was showing improvement in every aspect of his game, and it is tough for any player to go through this. Our priority now is to ensure he recovers fully.”

With Zirkzee sidelined, Manchester United will have to depend on their remaining options up front. Rasmus Hojlund and young talent Chido Obi-Martin are now the only recognized centre-forwards available for selection. Hojlund has been relatively consistent, netting eight goals across 41 appearances in all competitions this season. In contrast, Obi-Martin, despite his potential, has not yet found the back of the net for the first team, placing additional pressure on Hojlund to perform.

In addition to the injury crisis up front, Amorim confirmed that goalkeeper Andre Onana will return to the starting XI against Lyon. Onana was benched during the match against Newcastle following his poor performance in the first leg against Lyon, where he found himself at the center of controversy due to a public disagreement with Lyon midfielder and former United player Nemanja Matic. However, following Altay Bayindir’s lackluster display in conceding four goals against Newcastle, Onana’s spot is secure, allowing him to reclaim the No. 1 jersey for this crucial fixture.

As the team moves forward, they will need to rally around their remaining strikers and solidify their defensive strategies to advance in the Europa League. The situation calls for a collective effort from the entire squad to compensate for the absence of Zirkzee, while also ensuring that they maintain their competitive edge against Lyon. The upcoming match will be pivotal for United, who are looking to turn around their fortunes and progress further in the tournament despite the injury challenges they face.