Following Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 win over Ipswich Town, club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has voiced his frustration over manager Rúben Amorim’s substitution choices. The former United striker questioned Amorim’s decision to withdraw a key performer while keeping Joshua Zirkzee on the pitch. Expressing his concerns, van Nistelrooy remarked, “Why is Rúben Amorim subbing him out instead of Zirkzee? He was definitely better than Zirkzee during the match. He would have scored goals if the manager would just allow him to.”
Van Nistelrooy’s criticism stems from the ongoing debate about Zirkzee’s performances since his £36.5 million transfer from Bologna. The Dutch forward has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford, netting just three goals in 26 Premier League appearances during the 2024/2025 season. His underwhelming form has led to increasing scrutiny from fans and pundits alike, particularly as other players have shown greater effectiveness on the pitch.
The recent substitution controversy is not the first time Amorim’s tactical choices have been questioned. In a previous match against Newcastle United, Zirkzee was taken off after just 33 minutes, a move that sparked mixed reactions. The Portuguese manager later defended his decision, explaining that he had to consider the team’s overall performance and the well-being of the individual player. “You have to think about the team, and also sometimes about the player, as the player was suffering,” Amorim stated. “I felt the team was suffering and needed another midfielder, that’s it.”
Despite Amorim’s reasoning, van Nistelrooy and others believe that continually favoring an out-of-form Zirkzee over more effective teammates could be detrimental to Manchester United’s progress. Many argue that players who are performing well should be rewarded with more time on the pitch rather than being sacrificed for the sake of accommodating underperforming signings. This issue has fueled a broader discussion about selection policies and whether meritocracy is truly being upheld within the squad.
With crucial fixtures ahead, Amorim faces mounting pressure to refine his tactical decisions and ensure that the team is fielding its best possible lineup. Supporters and club veterans alike are eager to see a more balanced approach, one that prioritizes current form and contributions rather than external factors such as transfer fees or long-term potential. The manager’s choices in the coming matches will be closely watched, as fans demand consistency and strategic acumen to help Manchester United achieve their ambitions.
As the season progresses, the debate surrounding Zirkzee’s role and Amorim’s selection criteria is expected to persist. Whether Amorim adjusts his approach or continues to back Zirkzee despite his struggles will be a key storyline in Manchester United’s campaign. For now, the scrutiny remains, and the pressure on the manager only intensifies as expectations continue to rise at Old Trafford.
