Ronald Koeman names two things Joshua Zirkzee must do to be recalled to Dutch squad after latest snub

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee was not included in the Netherlands squad for upcoming international fixtures.

Joshua Zirkzee joined Manchester United from Bologna in the summer for £34 million, arriving as an exciting prospect. He made an immediate impact with a last-minute winner on his debut against Fulham.

However, he soon struggled with the Premier League’s intensity, losing the trust of both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. His poor form even sparked rumours of a potential January exit.

Tensions peaked in December when Amorim substituted him in the first half against Newcastle. Booed by some fans, Zirkzee appeared emotional on the Old Trafford bench.

Since then, the 23-year-old has fought his way back into the team, delivering strong performances and adapting to the English game. He has started the last six games in a row.

Koeman explains Zirkzee snub from Dutch squad

Zirkzee’s recent form has not been enough to secure a place in the Dutch squad for upcoming international games, however.

Ronald Koeman has decided to choose the likes of Justin Kluivert, Noa Lang and Donyell Malen over the United forward. Matthijs de Ligt has also been left out.

The Netherlands boss has explained that Zirkzee needs to improve in certain areas to regain a place in the squad in the future.

“He wasn’t in the preliminary selection because I don’t think he’s good enough at the moment. Especially scanning when turning or passing often goes wrong,” Koeman said.

“Yes, in principle form and fitness are always leading, but that is not always possible. We have a lot of central defenders and midfielders, but we are somewhat limited up front.

“But even then, I still think that you have to earn your selection, and I think he doesn’t deserve that now, but that could be the case again in another period.”

How Zirkzee and De Ligt can get back in Dutch squad

United fans will not be complaining that Zirkzee and De Ligt are not involved in the upcoming Nations League fixtures.

Instead, they will be able to rest up and be fully fit for when the Reds return to action. Yet, for the players, they will be desperate to return to the setup.

Read More: Manchester United ‘inform Chelsea of Kobbie Mainoo transfer fee’ as star’s ‘transfer preference’ revealed

Unfortunately, it is understandable that they haven’t been picked this time, with United’s position and form extremely poor despite some solid individual performances from the pair.

Their best chances of returning to the Dutch side is by helping United improve from their dire state this season. That has to be their priority.

Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is released every Wednesday at 6 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.