Joshua Zirkzee: Dutchman ‘excited’ to join ‘best club in the world’, Manchester United

Joshua Zirkzee says he has confidence in Manchester United’s future plans after moving to Old Trafford on a five-year contract.

Zirkzee admitted that the final weeks of his tournament stay in Germany had been a “rollercoaster ride” as the deal that would bring him to United was being finalised in the background throughout his time with the national team.

He arrives in Manchester at a time when Erik ten Hag is trying to breathe new life into the team after the club’s worst performance in the Premier League last season.

“It wasn’t a difficult decision. I mean, I love Bologna very much, but Manchester United just gave me a very, very good feeling.

“I am confident that what is planned will happen.

“The last few weeks have been a rollercoaster ride. Some very good experiences and I’m very happy to be here. Of course, the move to Manchester United is something very positive.”

“I can’t wait to get started and continue what I basically did last season. I just hope to improve every day and do my best.”

Ten Hag also hopes that Zirkzee can continue the form he showed last season, when his value continued to rise.

He scored 12 goals for Bologna in all competitions, which puts him behind only Rasmus Hojlund and Bruno Fernandes when calculated based on United’s output last season.

“I’m very happy to be here. I mean, this is probably the biggest club in the world, so I can’t wait to get started, meet everyone and start this journey. I’m very, very excited,” he said.

United will play Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 10 before appearing in the opening game of the Premier League season six days later when they host Fulham at Old Trafford.

Looking ahead to the challenge ahead, Zirkzee said: “I’m taking a short break. I’m trying to relax a bit and then I’ll come back to Manchester to get going.”

“Of course it (Old Trafford) is an amazing stadium. I can’t wait to play there. I’m just very, very excited and very motivated.”