Ruben Amorim
West Ham United are reportedly preparing a loan offer for Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, who joined Manchester United last season. Despite limited playing time under manager Ruben Amorim, with only four appearances and no starts this term, United are cautious about letting him leave. However, this hesitation might not deter West Ham from pursuing the player, as reported by The i Paper. Zirkzee, a former Bologna player, is exploring his options ahead of the winter transfer window.
Ruben Amorim said: “I understand that but they are our players and we need everyone to have a good season. I also know that in our club everything is a lot of noise. They want to play, and there’s a World Cup. There are agents that listen to the players, talking all the time.”
Amorim further commented on Kobbie Mainoo’s situation: “No, like a lot of guys, he wants to play more. I didn’t have a conversation with him before the window closed – I did this week. Because I don’t want Kobbie Mainoo thinking that I was having any conversation with him just to hold on to him. I don’t want that feeling.”
He added: “I believe a lot in Kobbie, but some of you think that Kobbie Mainoo is already done (the finished article). I think he can do so much better, he can improve a lot. I think for some guys it is enough (their talent), but for him it is not enough. Maybe it’s not fair, but I think I’m helping Kobbie Mainoo, and that’s it. He will have opportunities like the other guys.”
Zirkzee’s potential move to West Ham highlights the challenges faced by players seeking more game time at a club as competitive as Manchester United. Amorim’s comments reflect the complexities of managing a squad with high expectations and limited opportunities. The situation with Kobbie Mainoo, who also struggled for game time after a blocked loan move, underscores the balancing act required to maintain squad harmony while developing young talent. As the winter transfer window approaches, both Zirkzee and Mainoo will be keen to secure more playing time, whether at United or elsewhere.