Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has been omitted from the Netherlands' matchday squad for their UEFA Nations League fixture against Hungary, set to take place at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam tonight as reported by Manchester Evening News.Despite being included in the 25-man squad announced by Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman last week, Zirkzee failed to make the final 23-man roster.
The 23-year-old, who joined Manchester United from Bologna during the summer transfer window, was dropped alongside Bournemouth attacker Justin Kluivert, following UEFA regulations that mandate teams to submit a trimmed 23-man squad the night before a Nations League game.
Koeman, speaking at a pre-match press conference on Friday, had hinted that two players would be excluded but refrained from disclosing their identities.
Zirkzee, who has only scored once for Manchester United since his move, had participated in last month's international fixtures, starting in the Netherlands’ 1-1 draw against Hungary and making a substitute appearance against Germany days later.
The young forward's international career began during Euro 2024, where he made two substitute appearances, including a semi-final clash against England.
He opened his scoring account for the Netherlands in September, netting in a 5-2 victory over Bosnia during a Nations League encounter.
Despite his struggles to make a mark at Old Trafford, Zirkzee has found support in former United interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.
“Josh is more of a player who is coming toward the ball and gets the team playing,” said Van Nistelrooy earlier this month. “In the Crystal Palace game, I thought he was excellent and showed one of his best performances.”
Zirkzee’s exclusion from the matchday squad will likely raise questions about his form and future opportunities, both for club and country, as he continues to adapt to life in the Premier League.
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