Manchester United’s New Striker Reveals Footballing Idols
In an interview with Viaplay, the 23-year-old Dutchman revealed that his inspiration comes from a trio of legendary footballers—Cristiano Ronaldo, Robin van Persie, and Dennis Bergkamp.
While Messi is often included in discussions about the greatest footballers of all time, Zirkzee’s admiration for Ronaldo over Messi speaks volumes about his own playing style and the traits he values. For Zirkzee, Cristiano Ronaldo represents the epitome of athleticism, work ethic, and a relentless will to win—qualities that align with Zirkzee’s ambitions on the pitch. His appreciation for Robin van Persie and Dennis Bergkamp further emphasizes his respect for technical brilliance, creativity, and a forward’s eye for goal.
Ronaldo, in particular, has left a significant mark on Zirkzee. Known for his incredible physical prowess and mentality, Ronaldo’s achievements resonate with the young striker, who aims to reach similar heights in his career. The fact that both Ronaldo and Van Persie have donned the Manchester United jersey gives Zirkzee an extra sense of pride and purpose. Bergkamp, on the other hand, was a creative genius at Arsenal, and his vision and composure are qualities Zirkzee may look to emulate.
The decision to leave Messi off his list likely stems from Zirkzee’s admiration for players who have more closely mirrored his own aspirations. Ronaldo’s blend of technical skill, physicality, and leadership might simply resonate more with Zirkzee than Messi’s finesse-driven, playmaking style.
As Zirkzee aims to carve his own path at Manchester United, it’s clear that his football idols have shaped his approach to the game and his career ambitions.
Reactions
@AdeolaWrites: “Zirkzee didn’t choose Messi? Wow. Cristiano Ronaldo really inspires a lot of players with his insane work ethic! 🔥 #Ronaldo #ManUtd #Zirkzee”
@Oluwa_Tobi: “No Messi? I’m not surprised. Zirkzee picked legends who can give him that striker mentality. Ronaldo’s influence is unmatched! #CR7 #ManUtd”
@ChideraBliss: “Bergkamp over Messi? I feel Zirkzee knows his football. Technical genius recognized! 🇳🇱 #Bergkamp #Zirkzee #Football”
@FemiTheAnalyst: “Robin van Persie and Ronaldo as role models? Perfect idols for a striker. Zirkzee’s mind is in the right place! 💯 #MUFC #PremierLeague”
@AmakaBaller: “This Messi snub is wild, but honestly, Ronaldo’s dedication fits Zirkzee’s style more. Can’t blame him. 🔥 #Ronaldo #MessivsRonaldo”
@Kola_Xplores: “I respect Zirkzee’s picks! Ronaldo’s dominance and van Persie’s finishing make sense. Messi can’t be everyone’s idol. 🤷🏾♂️ #Ronaldo #Football”
@NnekaGoals: “Zirkzee’s got taste! Bergkamp was magic, and Ronaldo’s hard work is inspiration. Messi who? 😂 #Bergkamp #Ronaldo”
@SegunSports247: “Messi fans won’t like this, but Zirkzee clearly knows what he’s doing. Ronaldo’s mentality is GOAT level. 💪🏾 #ManUtd #Zirkzee #Ronaldo”
@IfyGolden: “I still think Messi is the GOAT, but I get why Zirkzee would lean towards CR7 and van Persie as strikers. #Zirkzee #MessivsRonaldo”
@BayoTop10: “No Messi?! I’m shocked. But if Zirkzee wants to be like Ronaldo or RVP, I can’t argue. Legends. 🔥 #ManUtd #Zirkzee”
@ChiomaFutbol: “Zirkzee picked Ronaldo over Messi? Typical striker thinking! Go for the killer instinct. Let’s go, Red Devils! #ManUtd #Ronaldo”
@KunleBigFootie: “Bergkamp in the conversation? Zirkzee is cultured! Love to see players respect that classic football style. 👌🏾 #Bergkamp #Zirkzee”
@TemidayoSky: “Ronaldo, RVP, Bergkamp? That’s a deadly combo of idols for any forward! Messi fans can chill, it’s Zirkzee’s choice. #Zirkzee #CR7”
@Ijeoma_Sports: “I feel like every young striker has Ronaldo on their list. Zirkzee didn’t surprise me, but no Messi love? Interesting. #MessivsRonaldo”
@David_Maverick: “Joshua Zirkzee is clearly a Ronaldo fanboy, and I respect it. Hard work, passion, and winning mentality. Let’s see what he brings to United! #Zirkzee #Ronaldo”
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