Manchester United have been urged to offload Joshua Zirkzee after the Dutch striker failed to seize his chance against Sunderland—a performance that has left fans and pundits alike questioning his future at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils, already qualified for the Champions League and virtually assured of a top-three finish, entered Saturday's match hoping to build momentum. Instead, they delivered what some are calling their worst display under interim boss Michael Carrick. Sunderland dominated much of the contest, and United were repeatedly saved by goalkeeper Senne Lammens, whose heroics earned a disappointing 0-0 draw.

With the pressure off, Carrick used the fixture to give game time to fringe players like Mason Mount, Noussair Mazraoui, and Zirkzee. The 24-year-old striker had earned his start after an impressive late cameo against Liverpool the previous week, but he failed to build on that promise. Zirkzee looked lost on the pitch, struggling to link up with teammates and even drawing visible frustration from captain Bruno Fernandes in the first half.

He was the first United player substituted, replaced by Patrick Dorgu in the 65th minute, with Matheus Cunha moving up front. According to Statman Dave, Zirkzee won just one of three ground duels and three aerial duels—a stat line that underscores his lack of impact. The analyst argues it's time for United to cut their losses and sign a new center-forward.

The criticism hasn't stopped there. The Sun's Samuel Luckhurst described Zirkzee as an "illogical signing" on social media, adding that his inclusion in the starting XI was equally baffling. For a club known for its ruthless standards, such a lukewarm performance against lower-league opposition only fuels the growing consensus: Zirkzee may not be the answer United need up front.