Breaking News: Fabio Capello Shrugs Off Gyökeres Snub, Says Manchester United Already Have a Better Striker
Fabio Capello has downplayed the significance of Manchester United missing out on Viktor Gyökeres, suggesting that the club already possesses a superior option in their ranks. Although United’s recent transfer moves hint at a desire to bolster their attacking line, including the signings of Matheus Cunha and ongoing efforts to secure Bryan Mbeumo, there remains skepticism among fans and pundits about whether they have a reliable, natural centre-forward.
United had reportedly shown strong interest in Gyökeres, but their pursuit has stalled due to Sporting CP’s steep valuation of over €70 million and complications in negotiations involving the player’s agent. There are even claims that the Swedish striker might prefer a move to Arsenal instead. Despite the noise, Capello remains indifferent, pointing instead to another forward as the better option.
In an article for La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Real Madrid and England manager expressed a clear preference for Joshua Zirkzee, arguing that he offers more value and upside than Gyökeres. Capello praised Zirkzee’s performances in Serie A with Bologna, where the 23-year-old played a key role in helping the club qualify for the Champions League. He noted that not only is Zirkzee younger, but he’s also proven himself in one of Europe’s toughest leagues — something Gyökeres, at 27, is yet to do.
Zirkzee’s versatility stands out. Unlike Gyökeres, who is a more traditional, penalty-box striker, Zirkzee frequently drops deep to help in the build-up and create chances, bringing a different dimension to his team’s attack. This kind of profile appears more in tune with the direction United’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, is taking — favoring mobile and technically gifted forwards who can press and combine rather than relying solely on a classic number nine.
Capello also hinted that United’s existing options might already be enough. Rasmus Højlund, while inconsistent last season, showed promise and scored 16 goals in all competitions. Combined with Cunha, who was a creative force at Wolves, and the potential addition of Mbeumo, United could be forming a fluid, multi-dimensional attack without needing to splash a massive fee on Gyökeres.
Ultimately, Capello’s remarks shine a light on a growing belief: Manchester United may not need to break the bank for a striker whose track record outside of Portugal is still untested. With Zirkzee offering a more modern skillset and aligning better with the club’s tactical vision, he could be the smarter, more economical alternative — one that fits not just the budget, but also the future of United’s evolving frontline.
