Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has come under fierce criticism from pundit Jamie Redknapp following a dismal display against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Carabao Cup third-round fixture saw United surrender a 2-0 lead and ultimately fall to a damaging 3-2 defeat to the Seagulls in midweek.
Redknapp, the former midfielder turned television pundit, was scathing in his assessment of Zirkzee’s contribution after the 25-year-old came on as a second-half substitute.
Speaking on Sky Sports after the final whistle, Redknapp said: “They [Brighton] looked better coached, they had patterns of play even though they made changes today they looked like a thoroughly good side.”
Redknapp continued: “United threw on their insurance policy in Bruno and Mainoo. Everyone thought they might be able to make an impact and in fact it made them worse.”
The pundit added: “Zirkzee came on and couldn’t pass the ball to his own teammate. Incredible for Brighton, they deserved it.”
Manager Michael Carrick introduced Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo in the second half in an attempt to turn the tide, but their introduction failed to stabilise the Red Devils.
Zirkzee originally arrived at Old Trafford after impressing during his time with Bologna, with the club making the decision to purchase him a couple of years ago.
The Dutchman has endured a difficult time adapting to the Premier League, and last season found himself on the periphery of Carrick’s plans, coming close to leaving on deadline day before United refused to sanction his departure.
This campaign, Zirkzee has operated as a rotational option, offering some promise against Sabah in the Champions League last week before this latest disappointing cameo.
The defeat to Brighton means United have now been knocked out of the Carabao Cup, compounding what has been a miserable start to the 2026/27 season across all competitions.
United have lost three of their six matches so far and currently sit 13th in the Premier League table, having collected just four points from as many games.
The club invested significantly in their midfield this summer, bringing in Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba, yet results have not reflected that ambition so far.
Having finished third in the Premier League last campaign, expectations were considerably higher heading into this season under Carrick’s continued stewardship.
United now face a trip to Craven Cottage to take on Fulham in the Premier League this weekend before the squad breaks for international duty.