Video: United star reveals return timeline after latest injury setback

Manchester United clinically dispatched noisy neighbours Manchester City in the Manchester derby on Saturday, with Joshua Zirkzee watching from the Old Trafford stands. That led to a lot of speculation regarding a potential January exit for the disillusioned Dutchman, who has started only four times this season. However, it has since been revealed that he suffered a knock in training, and hence, he had to miss the blockbuster clash. Despite his injury, rumours have continued to swirl regarding his future. A move to AS Roma was blocked by INEOS before the Serie A giants finally admitted defeat. Joshua Zirkzee injury timeline As recently relayed by The Peoples Person, Juventus have now joined the race. They all want the ex-Bologna ace in January as they are pretty confident that the injury is not a serious one. Something the versatile forward has himself revealed to a fan outside the Theatre of Dreams. While signing autographs, the former Bayern Munich ace revealed he would be out for two weeks. 🚨🎥| Joshua Zirkzee confirming he will return from injury in 2 weeks. pic.twitter.com/FnfCuY5rHT — Kev 屮 (@UtdKev08) January 18, 2026 That indicates the Netherlands international is likely to miss the clash against Arsenal at The Emirates as well. It will be interesting to see how Michael Carrick utilises the 24-year-old. Joshua Zirkzee is ill-equipped to deal with the pressures of leading the line on his own. How will Carrick use him? The United No.11 has a mere nine goals in 65 appearances, which illustrates the above point. He is at his best when played as a support striker or as an attacking midfielder, who can link up play as seen from his impressive cameo against Leeds United. The problem is Bruno Fernandes is the undisputed No.10 in the team while Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo are all capable of filling in there. Should chances continue to be scarce, there is a chance the Red Devils opt to let him leave towards the end of the window. But in that case, INEOS will look to offset the loss by bringing in a forward. An interesting end to the January transfer window awaits the 20-time English league champions. Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25