Ruben Amorim has reportedly had a behind the scenes row with a Manchester United star who wants to leave the club.
Amorim left Marcus Rashford out of his squad for four consecutive fixtures before bringing him back in as a substitute in the 2-0 loss to Newcastle.
But Amorim encountered a different issue with another forward after brutally substituting Joshua Zirkzee just 32 minutes in after an ineffective display.
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Trailing after goals from Alexander Isak and Joelinton, Amorim elected to take off the Dutchman for midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
His departure from the pitch was met by sarcastic cheers by fans at Old Trafford and after putting on his coat, Zirkzee ran down the tunnel before returning and taking his place on the bench minutes later.
Zirkzee is said to have had "tears in his eyes" in the tunnel after the humiliation and a new report from Corriere dello Sport, via The Sun, claims the 23-year-old has been involved in a row with Amorim and is looking to leave on loan.
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He only signed for United in the summer from Bologna but it's claimed the former Bayern Munich could end up at Juventus, managed by his former boss Thiago Motta.
Napoli and Inter Milan have also been touted as potential suitors for Zirkzee, who has scored just four goals in 26 appearances since his £36 million switch.
Juve sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli refused to mention Zirkzee by name but confirmed the club are "keeping an eye on any interesting opportunities".
Amorim comments on Zirkzee humiliation
Amorim was asked about his decision to withdraw Zirkzee in his post-match interview and expressed sympathy with the forward, who he claimed was "suffering" while linking up on the left of a front three.
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He also revealed the two had a conversation after the game.
"You have to think about the team and also the player because the player is suffering," Amorim told Sky Sports.
"I've been there. I felt the team was suffering and needed another midfielder.
"It was really tough on me to do that and I spoke with Josh because it is really important to express the message
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"It's important to know the players and I know that Josh is a really good guy. When he went to the tunnel, I can understand there are some guys in a bad way - he is in a good way because he is a good guy.
"We will support Josh and continue."
14th placed United return to action on Sunday with an almighty clash away at Premier League and Champions League leaders Liverpool.
Topics: Ruben Amorim, Manchester United
Josh Lawless