Manchester United is facing challenges ahead of the derby, with a forward sidelined due to injury.
The team focused on strengthening its attack during the summer transfer window following concerns about efficiency and depth last season.
The arrivals of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford and Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, along with Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, were intended to boost the team’s offensive capabilities.
Although Amad Diallo and Mbeumo returned from international duty before Michael Carrick’s first match as coach, the team still lacked a full set of attacking players.
Before kick-off, journalist Joost Blaauwhof confirmed that Joshua Zirkzee would not be part of the matchday squad due to injury.
“Joshua Zirkzee is sidelined by an injury for the Manchester derby. The forward is out for a bit,” reported Blaauwhof.
He added that Zirkzee may have played his last match for Manchester United amid rising interest from abroad, particularly his desire to join AS Roma in the coming weeks.
Zirkzee’s stint at Manchester United has not progressed as expected since his move from Bologna in 2024, despite a promising start that included a late goal against Fulham in the season opener.
With Ruben Amorim’s appointment, Zirkzee struggled to secure a consistent spot in the lineup, leading to just 518 minutes of play across all competitions this season.
He will be looking to regain his form in Italy and reach the level that initially attracted Manchester United.
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