Joshua Zirkzee receives support from Manchester United legend – “He needs time to adapt”

Joshua Zirkzee was Manchester United’s first signing of the summer transfer window and he has received support from club legend Jaap Stam.

Zirkzee, 23, joined the club from Bologna and will provide important competition for Rasmus Højlund, who came off injured in the latest friendly game.

The forward player is also viewed by United as versatile and able to play in multiple positions across the frontline.

Currently on holiday after playing at Euro 2024 with the Netherlands, Zirkzee is expected to join up with the squad before the Community Shield against Manchester City.

Tyrell Malacia is the only other Dutch player in the United squad but there are several Dutch coaches now, including manager Erik ten Hag.

One of the greatest players to represent United from the Netherlands has been Jaap Stam despite the defender only spending three years at the club.

Stam won three consecutive Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a Champions League trophy and the Intercontinental Cup during his time at Old Trafford.

He believes that Zirkzee is a player with “a lot of quality” but has explained that there will be a bedding-in period for the 23-year-old to get used to the demands at United.

“A young lad with a lot quality, as he showed in Serie A,” Stam replied when asked by The Athletic about the forward. “He needs time to adapt to the Premier League, not just the style of play but the pressure and expectation that comes at a huge club like United.

“I’ve been there, I know what it’s like. Different language, country, club, culture and players to what you are used to.

“It’s good for Joshua that there are a lot of Dutch there and he absolutely has ability.”

United are playing against Real Betis in the early hours of Thursday morning, with kick-off coming at 03:00 BST.

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