Iqbal’s Journey: From United to Utrecht and National Team Aspirations

Zidane Iqbal Utrecht Situation: Attitude Concerns, EPL Frustrations, and Uncertain Future

Zidane Iqbal’s journey at FC Utrecht has taken another complicated turn, as the club has confirmed the midfielder has been left out of the travelling squad for Thursday’s Europa League fixture against La Liga side Real Betis. The decision follows concerns from head coach Ron Jans, who has publicly questioned Iqbal’s commitment and mentality during recent training sessions.

Since joining Utrecht in 2023 following a disappointing spell at Manchester United, the 22-year-old Iraqi international has made 47 appearances across all competitions, scoring just one goal. This season, he has played five Eredivisie matches, recently rejoining the senior squad after recovering from knee surgery and spending a period with the reserves. His last appearance came on October 26 against AZ Alkmaar.

Coach Jans: “Being disappointed is fine, but not for weeks”

Speaking to Algemeen Dagblad, Ron Jans gave a direct and candid assessment of Iqbal’s attitude:

“Zidane had a difficult week of training. He showed minimal dedication both during and after matches. He looked disappointed all the time. That can happen for a day or two, but it cannot continue. You must reset.”

The 67-year-old coach did not give a clear timeline for when Iqbal would return to action and did not rule out additional absences from match squads.

From Old Trafford frustration to another stalled chapter

Before his move to the Netherlands, Iqbal had become vocal about his frustration at Manchester United, where he made 35 appearances for the U21s but played only one senior minute, coming on briefly against Young Boys in the Champions League.

Iqbal believed he was close to breaking through under Erik ten Hag, revealing:

“I was told I would start against Charlton in the cup. Martinez told me: ‘This is your moment.’
I invited family and friends, but when I arrived at the stadium, I wasn’t even on the bench.
That moment changed everything. I felt the manager didn’t truly believe in me.”

That disappointment pushed him toward Utrecht in search of consistent first-team football — something that now seems uncertain again.

A brighter international chapter with Iraq

While his club situation remains unstable, Iqbal’s international career has flourished. He has earned 22 caps for Iraq, and recently featured in both World Cup qualifiers against the United Arab Emirates.

Iraq will compete in an inter-confederation playoff in March, facing either Bolivia or Suriname for a spot in the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Iqbal has said he feels appreciated with Iraq:

“Graeme Arnold and Rene Meulensteen told me I’m important for the team. When we conceded the first goal, the manager pointed at me — I knew I would play.”

Injuries and rhythm issues continue

Iqbal also acknowledged that injuries have slowed his development:

“Missing pre-season was tough. Everyone already had rhythm when I returned. But I feel I’m getting back to my best. Whether I start or come from the bench, I want to make an impact.”

What comes next?

For now, the Zidane Iqbal Utrecht situation remains unresolved. His exclusion from the Betis squad is a clear message: improvement is required. Whether this moment becomes another setback — or a turning point — depends on how the player responds in the coming weeks.