Fans picked up on what Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee did after storming down the tunnel when brutally substituted just 32 minutes into the game against Newcastle
United hoped to close out a disappointing 2024 with a win at Old Trafford, but found themselves trailing 2-0 after just 20 minutes, with Alexander Isak and Joelinton both scoring for the visitors.
The Red Devils were thoroughly outclassed by the Magpies, and after struggling for 30 minutes, Ruben Amorim opted to make an early substitution.
Kobbie Mainoo changed into his kit and warmed up on the sideline before it was announced that he would replace Zirkzee, who had been playing on the left.
Zirkzee’s substitution was met with sarcastic applause, and after a quick handshake with Amorim, the disheartened Dutchman grabbed his coat and walked off down the tunnel.
A few minutes later, with the match still ongoing, the former Bayern Munich player returned to take his place on the bench.
After criticizing the fans’ response to Zirkzee’s departure during Sky Sports’ commentary, former United captain Gary Neville suggested that a staff member had instructed Zirkzee to return to the dugout, as he found it hard to believe the player had simply headed down the tunnel “for a Lucozade.”
Neville sympathizes with Zirkzee
Zirkzee has faced difficulties since his £36.5 million move from Bologna to United, netting only four goals in 25 appearances across all competitions. United fans quickly grew frustrated with him after a series of underwhelming performances, but Neville was upset by how he was treated.
“I actually feel sorry for Joshua Zirkzee,” Neville said on Sky Sports.
“I know he’s earning a lot of money, but there’s a person there who’s essentially been cheered off by his own supporters. That’s harsh. I haven’t seen that too many times in the 43 years I’ve been coming here.”
Shortly after Zirkzee’s return, Marcus Rashford was met with warm applause as he began his warm-up.
