FA release full statement on Joshua Zirkzee as Manchester United star avoids ban

The FA have released a full statement on Joshua Zirkzee after his celebrations during Manchester United’s win over Southampton caused upset online.

Amad was the hero for Manchester United on Thursday, scoring a sensational 12-minute hat-trick to secure a dramatic 3-1 comeback win over Southampton in the Premier League.

Despite dominating possession, United struggled in the first half, with André Onana making several key saves before Southampton capitalised on poor defending from a corner to take the lead just before half-time.

In the second half, United’s attacking woes continued, with Antony missing a golden chance, but Amad turned the game on its head late on. He thundered in an equaliser, calmly finished a brilliant Christian Eriksen pass to give United the lead, and sealed his hat-trick in stoppage time with a strong solo effort.

Amad’s match-winning display made him the first United player to net a hat-trick since Cristiano Ronaldo in April 2022, securing a crucial victory for Rúben Amorim’s side.

FA release statement on Zirkzee ban threat

Amid the drama of Amad’s brilliant hat-trick, United striker Joshua Zirkzee was seen to be grabbing his crotch during celebrations, which caused upset online.

While it was probably just a heat-in-the-moment celebration, previous players have faced punishment for similar creatures, Jude Bellingham being fined £25,000 and handed a suspended one-match ban for the same celebration in Euro 2024.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo was given a one-game ban for gesturing towards fans whilst playing for Al Nassr in 2024.

However, the FA have now released a statement confirming that Zirkzee would not receive any form of punishment. However, they have sent the Netherlands international a formal reminder about his responsibilities as a professional player.

“As guidance, we have issued Joshua Zirkzee with a reminder of his responsibilities, and he will face no further action,” a short statement confirmed.

Zirkzee must start vs Brighton

United’s next fixture comes in the form of a weekend fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Read More: Fabian Hurzeler has already warned Brighton about five Manchester United stars, but two won’t play

Rasmus Højlund has started United’s last few games up front, but he has failed to impress and has not scored in his last eight appearances.

Zirkzee was fantastic when he came off the bench against Southampton and has been credited with playing a significant role in allowing Amad to secure his treble on the evening.

Zirkzee must be given a chance to impress with a string of starts as the focal point in the XI, starting with Sunday afternoon’s game against Brighton.

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