I was already on my way to have Arsenal medical but the five minutes call from Erik ten Hag convinced me to join Man United instead”: Man United’s summer signing reveals how he was convinced to cancel Arsenal deal to join Man United.

Joshua Zirkzee has acknowledged that manager Erik ten Hag was a key influence in his decision to join Manchester United. The Dutch forward was the first signing of the summer for the Red Devils, arriving from Bologna for £36.5 million. Zirkzee has already made a mark by scoring the decisive goal in a match against Fulham as a substitute.In an interview with Dutch media outlet NOS, Zirkzee admitted that he was quickly persuaded to join United and found the decision straightforward. The 23-year-old recalled having positive discussions with ten Hag, who was keen for him to make the move.

He shared: “To be honest, I was immediately convinced after our talks. The process started in Germany, and ultimately it was an easy decision. Why? It’s Manchester United, after all.

“The discussions were convincing. When a club wants you so strongly, it makes the choice easier. I also had good talks with Erik. He wanted me, and I wanted to play for him. That’s a great combination.”

Zirkzee began his United career with a strong start, scoring a late Premier League winner against Fulham. However, his subsequent performances have been less impressive. He was involved in a contentious moment against Brighton & Hove Albion, where Alejandro Garnacho’s goal was nullified due to Zirkzee’s offside interference.

In the match against Liverpool, he missed several key opportunities, despite receiving excellent crosses from Marcus Rashford. Zirkzee also struggled in aerial and ground duels, failing to win any of his 10 attempts in the North-west derby.

The 23-year-old has had a mixed start at United and will be looking to improve his performance when the team faces Southampton later this month.Joshua Zirkzee’s early days at Manchester United have certainly been a blend of highs and lows. After becoming the club’s first summer signing for £36.5 million from Bologna, Zirkzee’s initial impact was promising, with a decisive goal against Fulham that showcased his potential to make a difference as a substitute.

Zirkzee has spoken openly about how Erik ten Hag’s influence was crucial in his decision to move to Old Trafford. In an interview with Dutch media outlet NOS, the 23-year-old forward mentioned how quickly he was convinced by the club’s approach, emphasizing the strong desire Manchester United showed in bringing him to the Premier League. His discussions with ten Hag were pivotal, as Zirkzee highlighted the positive rapport he built with the manager, making the decision to join straightforward.

However, his performances since that match-winning goal against Fulham have been inconsistent. Zirkzee’s involvement in a disallowed goal against Brighton due to an offside interference and his missed chances in the high-stakes match against Liverpool have raised concerns. His inability to win any of his 10 duels in the North-west derby against Liverpool underlined his struggle to assert his presence in critical moments.

As Manchester United prepares for their next match against Southampton, Zirkzee will be keen to find consistency and prove his worth. The Dutch forward’s adaptation period continues, and there will be a lot of focus on how he capitalizes on his potential under Erik ten Hag’s guidance.