Zagré eyes fresh start at Utrecht under Correia’s wingback system

Arthur Zagré has signed for FC Utrecht on a free transfer, determined to showcase more of his ability than during his earlier spell at the club. The 23‑year‑old left‑back says the opportunity sits at the top of his options under coach Anthony Correia.

Vandaag the club confirmed his arrival as a free‑agent left‑back, praising his enthusiasm for Correia’s playing style. Zagré immediately expressed a desire to return to the Domstad when Utrecht approached him.

Between 2021 and 2023 Zagré was already on loan at Utrecht, gaining his first experience in the Dutch Eredivisie. That period saw him mainly used as a substitute, limiting his impact on the pitch.

A week and a half ago the Burkinees international completed a free move from Excelsior, marking a second term at Galgenwaard. The move re‑unites him with the club that gave him his first Eredivisie minutes.

"Toen the club contacted me at the end of last season and I also spoke with the trainer, this was at the top of my options," Zagré told the Algemeen Dagblad. The quote highlights how early contact with the coaching staff shaped his decision.

Where Zagré had to rely on occasional appearances in his first Utrecht stint, he now aims to be of greater value. "I didn’t play much. Now I want to do better, I have more experience, I’m fitter and older," he explained, underscoring his improved physical and mental readiness.

He praised Correia’s system that employs wingbacks, calling it more dynamic and a perfect fit for his preferred role. "It suits my position: playing as a wingback, also on the inside," Zagré added, indicating tactical compatibility.

A few minutes of action came for Zagré on Saturday in a friendly against Japanese side V‑Varen Nagasaki. "I had wanted to play longer but I am only just back in training, so I am being introduced cautiously," he concluded, signalling a measured integration into the squad.