Why is Ruben Amorim subbing him out instead of Zirkzee. He was definitely better than Zirkzee during the match. He would have scored goals if the manager would just allow him to” – This is according to Ruud Van Nelstroy as he criticizes Ruben Amorim for favouring Zirkzee over a player that was vital in the thunderous win against Ipswich.

In the aftermath of Manchester United’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town, club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has openly criticized manager Ruben Amorim’s substitution choices. Van Nistelrooy questioned, “Why is Ruben Amorim subbing him out instead of Zirkzee? He was definitely better than Zirkzee during the match. He would have scored goals if the manager would just allow him to.”

This critique centers on Amorim’s decision to replace a standout performer while retaining Joshua Zirkzee, a £36.5 million summer signing from Bologna. Zirkzee has struggled to find form at Old Trafford, managing only one goal in 18 appearances since his debut. In contrast, the substituted player had been instrumental in the match against Ipswich, displaying exceptional skill and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts.

Amorim’s substitution strategy has raised eyebrows, especially considering Zirkzee’s recent performances. In a previous match against Newcastle United, Zirkzee was substituted after just 32 minutes, a move that drew criticism from fans and pundits alike. Amorim defended his decision, stating, “You have to think about the team, and also sometimes about the player as the player was suffering.” He added, “I felt the team was suffering and needed another midfielder, that’s it.”

Despite the manager’s rationale, van Nistelrooy and others believe that favoring an underperforming Zirkzee over more effective players could hinder the team’s progress. The situation has sparked a broader debate about selection policies and merit-based playtime at Manchester United.

As the Red Devils prepare for upcoming fixtures, the pressure mounts on Amorim to reassess his tactical decisions. Fans and club veterans alike are eager to see a lineup that reflects current form and effectiveness, ensuring that in-form players receive the opportunities they deserve to drive the team f

orward.In the wake of Manchester United’s recent 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town, club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has openly criticized manager Rúben Amorim’s substitution decisions. Van Nistelrooy questioned the rationale behind substituting a standout performer while retaining Joshua Zirkzee, stating, “Why is Rúben Amorim subbing him out instead of Zirkzee? He was definitely better than Zirkzee during the match. He would have scored goals if the manager would just allow him to.”

This critique highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding Zirkzee’s performance since his £36.5 million transfer from Bologna. The Dutch forward has struggled to find form at Old Trafford, managing only three goals in 26 Premier League appearances during the 2024/2025 season.

Amorim’s substitution strategies have previously drawn attention. In a match against Newcastle United, Zirkzee was substituted after just 33 minutes, a decision that led to mixed reactions from fans and pundits. Amorim defended the early substitution, emphasizing the need to consider both the team’s dynamics and the player’s well-being.

Despite the manager’s explanations, van Nistelrooy and others believe that favoring an underperforming Zirkzee over more effective players could hinder the team’s progress. As the Red Devils prepare for upcoming fixtures, the pressure mounts on Amorim to reassess his tactical decisions, ensuring that in-form players receive the opportunities they deserve to drive the team forward.