Breaking News: Erik ten Hag explains Joshua Zirkzee decision for Manchester United vs Man City

Joshua Zirkzee has been added to Man United’s Wembley roster as a replacement for Manchester City.

Erik ten Hag (left) has outlined why Joshua Zirkzee isn’t starting.

Joshua Zirkzee, who was picked as one of the substitutes for Saturday’s Community Shield match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Wembley, would require some time to get used to his new surroundings, according to Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.

Zirkzee, who joined United from Bologna in Italy last month, became the team’s first summer acquisition. He was brought in to bolster United’s forward line after Anthony Martial was let go at the conclusion of the previous campaign.

The forward arrived late to the team’s preseason practices after leaving for vacation following the summer’s European Championship for the Netherlands. Throughout United’s five preseason friendly, he did not participate.

Rasmus Hojlund had a hamstring injury in United’s first preseason match against Arsenal in the United States, thus it was expected that the new signing would start at Wembley. Ten Hag, nevertheless, has chosen to put him on the bench.

Speaking to MUTV prior to kickoff, Ten Hag gave his reasoning behind the choice, saying, “There are many games to play.” He requires time. Every player needs time—not just at Manchester United or when they visit the Premier League, but at any new club as well.

“He will adjust, but first we need to be patient and carefully integrate him into the team. He’ll undoubtedly make a significant contribution.