Manchester United’s hopes of a strong finish to their season have taken a major hit with the news that forward Joshua Zirkzee could miss the rest of the campaign due to a hamstring injury.
The 23-year-old Dutch international limped off during the second half of Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Newcastle United and has since undergone tests to assess the damage. Early indications suggest the injury is severe enough to potentially sideline him for the remainder of the season.
United manager Ruben Amorim is expected to provide further clarity during Wednesday’s press conference ahead of the crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford.
Zirkzee has scored seven goals in all competitions since joining from Bologna in the summer, including a key strike in last week’s 2-2 draw in the first leg against Lyon. He has also made 32 Premier League appearances, though only three goals have come in the league.
With six league games remaining — the final one scheduled for 25 May against Aston Villa — and the Europa League final set for 21 May in Bilbao, Zirkzee’s injury leaves United short of attacking options at a pivotal point in the season.
His absence could force Amorim to turn to youngsters or out-of-form forwards as United aim to secure European qualification and chase Europa League glory.
