Revitalized Careers: Former Manchester United Players Shine Elsewhere

Several forwards previously deemed underperformers at Manchester United have found revitalized careers elsewhere. Marcus Rashford, who fell out of favor under Ruben Amorim, rediscovered his form during a loan spell at Aston Villa, which ultimately facilitated his move to Barcelona and earned him further recognition with the England national team.

Brazilian winger Antony has quickly become a fan favorite at La Liga side Real Betis after being labeled an £85 million ($112 million) flop during his time at Manchester. Meanwhile, Scott McTominay has emerged as a Serie A title-winning hero at Napoli, where he now has Rasmus Hojlund contributing to the team’s goal tally in Italy.

Alejandro Garnacho has also made a notable impact following his transition to Chelsea. There are speculations that Zirkzee might seek a similar exit during the upcoming January transfer window, with potential moves back to Italy on the horizon, as clubs like Roma and AC Milan have shown interest.

Ruud Gullit believes the 24-year-old should consider a fresh start away from Manchester, expressing to Video Gamer, “Everyone who leaves Man United ends up playing well. The problem may actually lie with United. I would advise Zirkzee to find a place where he can play regularly. If possible, return to Italy on loan. He is a talented player. However, the situation at Man United is challenging. They have shown some improved form recently, and I hope they can maintain that, as a strong Manchester United enhances the Premier League as a whole.”

Zirkzee, who managed only seven goals for United last season and has yet to start a Premier League match this term, requires consistent playing time to secure a spot in Ronald Koeman’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. When asked about the Netherlands’ prospects for the tournament, the 1987 Ballon d’Or winner remarked, “We have a very good squad, and I feel positive about the players. However, we are conceding too many goals. With so much talent, it is perplexing how we allow so many easy goals. We need to resolve this. I believe Koeman is doing a commendable job, but a little luck is necessary at times. I genuinely think they can win the World Cup.”

Gullit, who has previously managed Chelsea, Newcastle, Feyenoord, and LA Galaxy, has no intention of returning to coaching at the age of 63. He commented on the pressures of management, particularly highlighted by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s return to Manchester United, stating, “I never aspired to be a manager, yet it turned out well for me. However, coaching can be quite unenjoyable. Look at the coaches; many of them are bald, gray, and grumpy. It’s a tough life. I recall Ole Solskjaer when he first joined United; he was so joyful. Now he appears worn out, almost like Gollum from The Lord of the Rings! Jurgen Klopp looks much less happy now than he did before.”

Both Klopp and Solskjaer are currently out of management, with the latter parting ways with Turkish side Besiktas in August. Solskjaer is now free to watch more Manchester United matches, as Zirkzee and his teammates have recovered from a slow start to the 2025-26 season, currently sitting seventh in the Premier League table.