"Zirkzee impresses in debut, while Sancho's future remains unclear"

 "Zirkzee impresses in debut, while Sancho's future remains unclear"

Joshua Zirkzee netted the decisive goal on his debut for Manchester United.

Joshua Zirkzee's late winner on his Premier League debut for Manchester United against Fulham at Old Trafford created a pleasing symmetry. Twenty-three years earlier, another Dutch forward scored a late winner against the same opponents for United.

While Zirkzee may not match Ruud van Nistelrooy's tally of 150 goals over five seasons, the presence of Van Nistelrooy, now a coaching assistant to manager Erik ten Hag, added to the significance of Zirkzee's 87th-minute strike.

"It doesn't matter if he is Dutch, English, Russian, or South American," said Ten Hag. "He is a Manchester United player, and it's great for a striker to score on their debut."

Ten Hag contrasted Zirkzee's swift success with the struggles of Rasmus Hojlund, his major signing from last season, who went 15 games into his Premier League career before scoring. Hojlund's first goal, which came against Aston Villa on Boxing Day, had been delayed due to a VAR decision.

Zirkzee's goal ignited the Old Trafford crowd, a fitting response to the anticipation surrounding the £36.5m signing from Bologna.

"Manchester United Look Like a Serious Club Again"

The recent result has led pundits, many of whom are former United captains, to reassess their critical views of the club. Gary Neville expressed satisfaction with the renewed sense of control and direction, attributed to the new chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth.

"Manchester United need to be a serious football club, and it seems that's beginning to happen," Neville said. "The transfer prices seem more reasonable now. Last season was often embarrassing, but the club is in a stronger position now, and I'm feeling more optimistic."

Joshua Zirkzee's debut performance, marked by a composed goal and celebration, added to the positive assessment. Roy Keane praised Zirkzee's neat finishing and effective link-up play, noting the importance of scoring on his debut.

Zirkzee faced challenges over the summer, including an injury that initially ruled him out of Euro 2024. However, due to other injuries within the Dutch squad, he was eventually called up by Ronald Koeman. This extended break meant Zirkzee needed careful management during pre-season, which is why he was on the bench for the Community Shield loss to Manchester City.

"We had to assess each individual, and he needed to address some deficits," said Ten Hag. "He has qualities we lacked and showed them immediately. He’s very effective in linking play and scoring goals, which he demonstrated today."

With less than two weeks remaining in the transfer window, United are still exploring options, particularly in midfield, with Burnley's Sander Berge among potential targets. Scott McTominay is a valuable asset, though it is unclear if he wants to leave, despite interest from Napoli and a cheeky chant from Fulham fans.

Regarding Jadon Sancho, Ten Hag confirmed he was not selected for the opening match due to lingering effects of an ear infection, despite being fit enough to play. Chelsea is the latest club linked with Sancho, who had a tumultuous end to last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund.

"This season will be about survival of the fittest, but I can only include 20 players in the squad," Ten Hag explained. "Jadon was not fully fit, so I chose other players for the bench. However, this situation can change, and it's ultimately about what’s best for the team and the club."