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Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee reportedly broke down in tears in the tunnel after being substituted just 33 minutes into their Premier League clash against Newcastle at Old Trafford on Monday night.
The Dutchman was replaced by manager Ruben Amorim after United fell 2-0 behind early in the first half, prompting audible jeers from the home crowd as the £36.5 million summer signing left the pitch.
Zirkzee, visibly emotional, walked off quickly, bypassing the bench to head down the tunnel. Reports from beIN Sports and Sky Germany claim the 22-year-old was seen in tears before eventually returning to the bench a few minutes later, clutching a water bottle.
Speaking after the match, Amorim addressed the substitution, calling it a “really tough decision” but emphasizing its necessity for the team’s strategy.
“I spoke with Josh about it because it’s important to convey the message,” Amorim told Sky Sports. “In that moment, the team needed another midfielder to regain control of the game. I know it was hard for him, but I had to think about the team.”
Amorim acknowledged Zirkzee’s struggles during his debut season but stressed that the forward remains an integral part of the squad, drawing parallels to Harry Maguire’s journey through difficult periods at the club.
“He’s a great lad and has our full support,” Amorim said. “We’ll prepare for the next game, and he’ll bounce back. Moments like these are part of life, and we’ll help him through it.”
Zirkzee’s substitution was tactical, with 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo coming on to strengthen the midfield. However, United failed to recover, succumbing to first-half goals from Alexander Isak and Joelinton. The result marked a historic low, with the club enduring three consecutive home defeats for the first time in 45 years.
Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville expressed sympathy for Zirkzee during his analysis on Sky Sports.
“I really feel for him,” Neville said. “There’s a human being behind the player who’s being jeered by his own fans. That’s brutal and rare to see at Old Trafford.”
Zirkzee has made 27 appearances in all competitions for United since joining from Bologna, contributing four goals and two assists. However, the team’s form continues to falter, leaving them in 14th place, just seven points above the relegation zone as the New Year approaches.
