Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has released a statement, apologising to the fans for missing the decisive penalty as Fulham progressed to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup with a 4-3 shootout victory.
United were knocked out of the competition on Sunday at Old Trafford, bringing an end to their defence of the trophy, having won it last season.
Calvin Bassey nodded Fulham ahead just before the break, taking full advantage of some pitiful set-piece defending from the hosts.
Bruno Fernandes restored parity in the second half with an exquisite finish from 16 yards out, to ensure the game edged into extra time and then penalties.
The Cottagers emerged out on top after Victor Lindelof and Zirkzee were thwarted from the spot-kick by Bernd Leno.
After the final whistle, Zirkzee was reduced to tears as he pulled his shirt over his face.
A number of Fulham players were also spotted comforting him.
Zirkzee inconsolable 😔#mufc #facup pic.twitter.com/4vZPWI88F7
— StrettyEnd (@_StrettyEnd) March 2, 2025
The Netherlands international took to social media a few hours after the defeat and wrote, “Sorry to let you down today Reds!”
“Thanks for the incredible support.”
His message was accompanied by a red love heart emoji.
Zirkzee was named in the starting XI and played the entire match in one of the number 10 roles, just behind the striker.
There were some positives about his performance including some brilliant link-up play, holding up of the ball and passing but he didn’t pose a real threat to the Fulham defence.
In his post-match interview with BBC, Amorim insisted that Zirkzee is improving in a United shirt. Meanwhile, the Red Devils are back in action on Thursday when they face Real Sociedad in the round of 16 of the Europa League at San Sebastian.
Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
