Manchester United’s attacking woes have been a persistent issue, with the club struggling to find a consistent goal-scoring threat despite investing in young talents like Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee. As the summer 2025 transfer window approaches, manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly made a bold decision: keep Zirkzee and move on from Højlund, who is attracting interest from Inter Milan. This choice signals a pivotal shift in United’s rebuild, aiming to revitalize a misfiring attack that scored just 44 Premier League goals in 2024-25. This article analyzes Amorim’s decision, the performances of both strikers, and what this means for Manchester United’s future, drawing on recent reports from Corriere dello Sport and The Sporting News.
United’s Attacking Crisis: A Long-Standing Problem
Manchester United’s offensive struggles have plagued the club for seasons, culminating in a dismal 2024-25 campaign where they finished 15th in the Premier League and lost the UEFA Europa League final. Despite heavy investment in young forwards like Højlund (£72 million from Atalanta in 2023) and Zirkzee (£36.5 million from Bologna in 2024), the attack has lacked potency. The duo combined for just seven Premier League goals last season, underscoring the need for change.
Ruben Amorim, appointed mid-season, inherited a squad that scored only 44 league goals, one of the lowest tallies in the Premier League era for United. His 3-4-2-1 system demands dynamic, versatile forwards, but neither Højlund nor Zirkzee has fully delivered. With the summer transfer window looming, Amorim is reportedly prioritizing a new No. 9, with names like Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo linked, signaling a major overhaul.
Rasmus Højlund: A Promising Start Fades
Rasmus Højlund arrived at Manchester United in 2023 with high expectations after scoring 10 goals in Serie A for Atalanta. His debut season showed promise, with 15 goals and two assists across all competitions, including a strong Europa League campaign with six goals. However, his second season was a disappointment, with only four Premier League goals in 32 appearances and a 21-match goalless streak that drew criticism.
Højlund’s struggles under Amorim’s system have been stark. Described as lacking consistency, the 22-year-old Dane has failed to adapt to the tactical demands of leading United’s attack. Reports from Corriere dello Sport indicate that United are ready to cut their losses, with Inter Milan eyeing Højlund to complement their potent attack featuring Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram. Inter’s interest includes a potential loan with an obligation to buy, though United prefer a permanent sale to fund Amorim’s rebuild. Højlund’s prior Serie A experience makes the move appealing, but his £40 million valuation and United’s high demands may complicate negotiations.
Despite his struggles, Højlund remains a talented prospect with time to develop. Posts on X reflect mixed fan sentiment, with some believing he could thrive elsewhere, while others see his exit as necessary to address United’s goal-scoring woes.
Joshua Zirkzee: Amorim’s Preferred Choice
In contrast, Joshua Zirkzee has emerged as Amorim’s favored striker for the 2025-26 season. Signed from Bologna for £36.5 million, the 23-year-old Dutchman endured an underwhelming first season, scoring six goals and providing two assists in 49 appearances. However, when healthy, Zirkzee showed flashes of brilliance, bringing energy and threat to United’s attack. His ability to drop deep, link play, and create chances aligns well with Amorim’s system, particularly as a No. 10 in the 3-4-2-1 setup.
Zirkzee’s versatility has earned him favor, with Corriere dello Sport reporting that United rejected an approach from Inter Milan to retain him. Fans on X have praised his hold-up play and ability to control the final third, with some arguing he outshone Højlund in key moments last season. Despite an injury setback, Zirkzee’s potential to operate as a playmaking forward behind a new No. 9, like Gyokeres or Mbeumo, makes him a better fit for Amorim’s vision. United’s decision to keep Zirkzee signals confidence in his growth, even as they seek a more prolific striker.
Amorim’s Vision: A New Direction for United’s Attack
Ruben Amorim’s decision to favor Zirkzee over Højlund reflects his intent to build a dynamic, cohesive attack. The Portuguese manager, preparing for his first full season, is reportedly targeting a reunion with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, who thrived under him, and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo to bolster the forward line. United have already secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves, adding depth and versatility. These moves suggest a shift toward a more fluid, high-energy attack, with Zirkzee playing a supporting role rather than leading the line.
Højlund’s potential departure, possibly to Inter Milan, would free up funds and squad space for Amorim’s rebuild. However, challenges remain. United’s lack of European football in 2025-26 and a reduced wage bill necessitate a leaner squad, making every transfer decision critical. Critics like Chris Sutton have argued that neither Højlund nor Zirkzee is at the level required for United, but Amorim’s faith in Zirkzee suggests a long-term plan to develop the Dutchman alongside new signings.
The contrast between Højlund and Zirkzee’s fit in Amorim’s system highlights the manager’s tactical priorities. While Højlund’s traditional striker profile struggled, Zirkzee’s playmaking and energy offer a foundation for growth. United’s pursuit of a proven No. 9 indicates that Zirkzee will likely play a hybrid role, with a new star leading the attack.
Manchester United’s attacking crisis has forced Ruben Amorim to make tough choices, with Joshua Zirkzee emerging as his preferred striker over Rasmus Højlund for the 2025-26 season. Højlund’s inconsistency and potential move to Inter Milan signal the end of his Old Trafford journey, while Zirkzee’s versatility and promise have earned him a stay. As United target high-profile forwards like Gyokeres and Mbeumo, Amorim’s vision for a dynamic attack is taking shape. The coming transfer window will be pivotal for United’s rebuild, and fans are eager to see if Zirkzee can rise to the occasion. What are your thoughts on Amorim’s decision? Should United keep Højlund or bet on Zirkzee?