Ruben Amorim breaks silence on brutal Joshua Zirkzee substitution which left Man Utd star with ‘tears in his eyes’

Joshua Zirkzee endured a tough moment at Old Trafford, hastily leaving for the tunnel after an embarrassing incident before returning to his place on the bench. Reports from a Sky Germany journalist positioned inside the tunnel revealed that the Dutch striker had “tears in his eyes” following the ordeal, underscoring the emotional toll of the situation.

In his post-match interview, Sporting manager Rúben Amorim addressed the incident, showing sympathy for Zirkzee and commending his character. Amorim explained that the decision to substitute the striker was difficult but necessary for the team, emphasizing that he had personally spoken to Zirkzee afterward to provide reassurance. Amorim praised the player for his mature reaction, reaffirming his commitment to supporting him through this challenging phase.

Meanwhile, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville criticized the actions of some fans, who turned against Zirkzee after his lackluster performance. Neville expressed sympathy for the player, pointing out the harsh reality of being jeered by his own supporters. He called for empathy, reminding fans that despite his professional status and significant earnings, Zirkzee is ultimately a human being facing immense pressure.

Zirkzee, who signed a five-year deal during the summer for £36 million, has struggled to make an impact, managing just four goals in 25 appearances across all competitions. His difficulties in adapting to the demands of Manchester United have led to speculation about a potential early exit from the club.

The incident at Old Trafford highlights the immense scrutiny and expectations placed on high-profile signings. It also serves as a reminder of the critical role managers, teammates, and fans play in shaping a player’s confidence and ability to overcome setbacks. Whether Zirkzee uses this moment as a catalyst for improvement or opts for a fresh start elsewhere remains to be seen, but the support he receives during this period will be crucial to determining his future trajectory.