How will Zirkzee fit in tactically at Man United? Three possible formations

3 minutes

Manchester United’s acquisition of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna represents a strategic move to bolster their attacking options. The Dutch forward’s versatility, coupled with his impressive performances in Serie A, makes him a valuable asset for Erik ten Hag. Let’s delve into how Zirkzee’s skill set can be integrated into United’s tactical framework.

Zirkzee’s Profile: A Modern Forward

Zirkzee is not a traditional number nine. At 6’4″, he possesses the physicality of a target man, but his game is far more nuanced. His exceptional technical ability, coupled with his pace and intelligence, makes him a nightmare for defenders.

  • Goal-scoring prowess: His 11 Serie A goals last season underline his ability to find the net.
  • Creativity: Zirkzee is adept at creating chances for teammates, ranking among the top 10 in Serie A for chances created from open play.
  • Versatility: He can operate as a lone striker, a second striker, or even as a number 10.
  • Physicality: His height and strength make him a formidable presence in the air.

Fitting Zirkzee into Ten Hag’s System

Erik ten Hag has shown a preference for adaptable formations, often switching between a 4-2-3-1, 4-3-3, and a 3-5-2. Zirkzee’s versatility makes him a valuable asset in each of these systems.

4-2-3-1: A Fluid Front Four

  • Role: Zirkzee could operate as a right-sided winger in a front four.
  • Strengths: His ability to cut inside and shoot with either foot would be a threat. He could also drift centrally to link-up play.
  • Adaptability to Ten Hag’s current tactics: This would allow Bruno Fernandes to maintain his central role while providing Zirkzee with opportunities to impact the game in a different area.

4-3-3: A Wider Perspective

  • Role: Zirkzee could operate as a central striker in a front three.
  • Strengths: His ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play would be crucial. He could also drop deep to create overloads in midfield.
  • Adaptability to Ten Hag’s current tactics: This formation was used frequently last season, with Rasmus Hojlund often deployed as a central striker. Zirkzee could offer a different dynamic in this role. While both Zirkzee and Hojlund are promising young strikers, their playing styles differ. Hojlund is more of a traditional number nine, known for his pace, aerial ability, and clinical finishing. Zirkzee, on the other hand, is a more versatile forward with excellent technical skills and a playmaker’s instinct. His ability to drop deep, link-up play, and create chances for teammates sets him apart from the more direct Hojlund.

3-5-2: A Defensive Solidity

  • Role: Zirkzee could form a strike partnership with another forward.
  • Strengths: His physicality and aerial ability would be valuable in this system. He could also provide an outlet for long balls.
  • Adaptability to Ten Hag’s tactics: While less frequently used, this formation offers defensive solidity. Zirkzee’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play would be crucial in this system. The prospect of Zirkzee and Hojlund partnering upfront is an exciting one. Their contrasting styles could create a potent combination.
    • Zirkzee as the playmaker: With his ability to drop deep, link-up play, and create chances, Zirkzee could act as a playmaker, drawing defenders away and creating space for Hojlund’s runs.
    • Hojlund as the finisher: Hojlund’s pace, power, and clinical finishing could be maximized with Zirkzee providing the ammunition. His ability to make late runs into the box could be lethal.

Conclusion

Joshua Zirkzee is a versatile forward who can add a new dimension to Manchester United’s attack. His ability to play multiple roles makes him a valuable asset for Erik ten Hag. While adapting to the Premier League will be a challenge, Zirkzee’s talent and potential suggest that he can become a key player for the Red Devils.

Ultimately, the success of Zirkzee at Manchester United will depend on how well Ten Hag can integrate him into the team and how quickly he can adapt to the demands of the Premier League. But given his skill set and the club’s ambitions, the future looks bright for the young Dutchman.

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