Erik ten Hag provides Joshua Zirkzee fitness update ahead of Manchester United-Manchester City clash

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has provided an update on injured striker Joshua Zirkzee. The 23-year-old arrived from Bologna this summer on a reported €42.5 million deal.

However, Zirkzee is yet to play his first game for his new side - even in pre-season - as he only reported to Carrington on July 29 (as per The Mirror) - following his involvement with the Netherlands at Euro 2024. The Oranje lost 2-1 to England in the semi-final.

Nevertheless, the striker was not in the Red Devils' squad for pre-season, where they won two of their three games and lost three. Ahead of their season opener in the FA Community Shield with Manchester City at the Wembley on August 10, United have an injury crisis, with Rasmus Hojlund and new signing Leny Yoro out injured.

Providing an update on Zirkzee's fitness level, the Dutch coach said (as per viaplaysportnl/TheEuropeanLad via The United Stand):

"Joshua Zirkzee is not as fit as the rest of the squad. Last Monday was only his first session with the team. Yes, we do believe (he can play vs City). But we will base our decision on the impression he gives us."

As Ten Hag's statement, Zirkzee could be in line for his United debut against City if he 'impresses' in training.

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Manchester United boss hails Joshua Zirkzee's qualities

Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee has arrived at Manchester United after an impressive campaign with Bologna. He scored 11 times and provided five assists in 34 games as the Serie A side qualified for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the Champions League era, last gracing the competition 60 years ago.

Hailing the qualities of his compatriot, Ten Hag said that Zirkzee has skills that were not in the squad. The Dutch coach elaborated (as per the aforementioned source):

"Joshua Zirkzee has skills that we didn't have yet in this team, such as his hold-up play, creativity, dribbling. We didn't have this skill set yet in the striker position."

Allaying concerns about Zirkzee's playing style being compatible with Rasmus Hojlund's Ten Hag continued:

"Joshua Zirkzee & Rasmus Hojlund can play together. They complement each other. We have signed new people who hopefully can contribute to the squad facing less injuries."

The Red Devils - who finished a lowly eighth in the league last season - commence their Premier League campaign at home to Fulham on August 16.