Dutch Striker Impresses But Faces Competition

Joshua Zirkzee: A Rising Star with an Uncertain Outlook

Dutch Striker Impresses but Faces Competition

Joshua Zirkzee, the former Bayern Munich talent who is now a key player for Bologna, has received a call-up to the Netherlands squad for the upcoming European Championship. However, his role at the club remains uncertain, and his chances of making a significant impact on the international stage are unclear.

Bright Start in Italy

Zirkzee joined Bologna on loan from Bayern Munich in January 2022. He quickly became a regular starter and impressed with his goalscoring prowess, netting four goals in his first eight Serie A appearances. His performances earned him a permanent move to the Italian club in the summer of 2022.

Limited Playing Time

Despite his strong start, Zirkzee has struggled to maintain a regular starting spot at Bologna this season. Under new manager Thiago Motta, the Dutch forward has often found himself on the bench, with Marko Arnautovic and Musa Barrow preferred in attack.

Dutch National Team Call-Up

Despite his limited playing time at club level, Zirkzee has been included in Louis van Gaal's Netherlands squad for the European Championship. The 21-year-old is one of six strikers called up to the provisional squad, but he faces stiff competition from established stars such as Memphis Depay and Luuk de Jong.

Uncertain Future

Zirkzee's future remains uncertain both at club and international level. His lack of regular playing time at Bologna raises questions about his long-term prospects at the club. Meanwhile, his status in the Dutch national team is equally unclear given the abundance of attacking talent at van Gaal's disposal.