Manchester United fans have been left stunned after finding out new signing Joshua Zirkzee’s wages.
On Sunday afternoon, the Old Trafford club officially announced the signing of Dutch striker Zirkzee from Bologna, for a reported fee of £36.5 million.
Upon joining United, the 23-year-old said: “Having had discussions with the manager and the leaders of the club I know how exciting the future is going to be here and I cannot wait to play my part in achieving success for Manchester United.
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“I am a player who has always dedicated everything to winning; I’m ready for this next challenge, to go to another level in my career and win more trophies.”
He added: “It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but I’ll be coming back ready to make an impact straight away.”
After the signing was confirmed, it was reported that Zirkzee would earn a weekly salary of £56,000 upon signing a five-year contract.
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Reacting on social media, one fan said: “Ed Woodward would have placed him on £100k+ p/w already. I don’t recognize my club no more.”
Another tweeted: “Joshua Zirkzee set to earn £56K per week at United? Not only is that a deserved rise to his previous £19K per week at Bologna FC but it’s also a great sign for our wage structure moving forward. Go back a few years we would have offered triple that.”
A third fan added: “£56K a week for Zirkzee? Outrageously low wage considering our history. Financial stability from INEOS?”
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On the signing of Zirkzee, United sporting director Dan Ashworth said: “We are delighted that we’ve managed to sign a player of Joshua’s calibre this early in the transfer window.
“Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United. His ability and desire to grow into a world-class player means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.”
United kicked off their pre-season fixtures with a 1-0 defeat against Norwegian side Rosenborg at the Lerkendal Stadion on Monday evening.
Topics: Manchester United, Fan Reactions, Football
Marcus Chan