Joshua Zirkzee reveals how Ruud van Nistelrooy helps his game at Man United, Jarrad Branthwaite said the same thing

Joshua Zirkzee has repeated Jarrad Branthwaite’s comments about Manchester United assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Zirkzee, 23, joined Manchester United this summer as part of INEOS‘ first transfer window in charge at Old Trafford.

Changes were made not only to the playing squad but also to the higher-ups and first-team coaching staff, including the addition of Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The legendary striker, who scored 150 times for the club during his playing career, is now Erik ten Hag’s right-hand man and is offering his expertise to current players in the squad.

Zirkzee on how Van Nistelrooy has helped him

Zirkzee has started positively since joining United and was asked about how Van Nistelrooy is helping him behind the scenes.

While the 23-year-old Dutch striker did not want to give away too many details, he explained the emphasis Van Nistelrooy puts on looking back at footage in a detailed fashion.

“I want to keep it a secret. It’s great. He’s been a striker. Detailed work,” said Zirkzee when speaking to Viaplay, as per TenHagBall.

“Watching footage. Looking back. The way he works with you. That’s very important, I can relate to that. You can learn a lot from him.”

Jarrad Branthwaite said the same thing about Van Nistelrooy

Of course, United fans will be too familiar with Jarrad Branthwaite’s name after the summer transfer window.

The Everton centre-back had agreed personal terms with the Old Trafford outfit before his club priced him out of a move. United may return for the 22-year-old next summer.

Branthwaite previously worked with Van Nistelrooy on loan at PSV Eindhoven. Van Nistelrooy managed the Eredivisie side for the 2022/23 campaign.

Speaking to Stadium Astro at the beginning of the year, the defender reflected on his time working under the Dutch legend and pointed out the importance he placed on watching the footage back to improve—the same point that Zirkzee made.

“Yeah he was giving me little pointers, especially watching the analysis [of games] back,” said Branthwaite.

“He would get me in the office and tell me things I could do. Body shape, how to defend in behind, how to defend short and it helped me massively.”

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