Manchester United’s summer signing Joshua Zirkzee has revealed the role he would like to play in Erik ten Hag’s system, labelling himself a ‘false striker’.

The Red Devils announced Zirkzee as their first incoming transfer under INEOS’ control of footballing operations at Old Trafford in July. The former Bologna star helped his side qualify for the Champions League last season, registering 37 appearances and 12 goals across the campaign.

He’s set to become a vital part of United’s upcoming Premier League season, joining Rasmus Hojlund at the front of attack. The Netherlands star believes he can offer ‘different’ skills than his teammates and outlined the role he hopes to play in United’s fight for success.

“I occasionally drop down to midfield. I don’t do that for myself but to help the team,” he told The Mirror. “I am what I call a false striker. Not a number 9, not a number 10. I am a 9.5! That’s my game. Maybe I’m a little different than others. But being different is good, right?

“I want to play a pure game. Nutmegs, chops and back heels are moments that belong in football. That style has value for me. It’s the soccer kid in me because it’s supposed to be fun too, isn’t it?

“You have to pick the right moments. It’s intuition. I think I have excellent skills. I spent a lot of time on that as a kid. But if I lose the ball, I want to regain it immediately with the team. But the fancy footwork is part of my game at the end of the day.”

Zirkzee has not featured in United’s pre-season tour of the United States after being on international duty at Euro 2024. The Red Devils are set to face rivals Manchester City in the FA Community Shield on Saturday before kicking off their 2024/25 Premier League season against Fulham just six days later.

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