Zirkzee joins Netherlands squad despite no Premier start

Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee has been summoned to the Netherlands senior squad after Brian Brobbey withdrew with a hamstring injury during the Oranje’s 1‑1 Nations League draw with Germany, meaning the United forward joins the national team despite not having started a Premier League match this season.

Brian Brobbey limped off with a hamstring problem in the first half of the Oranje’s 1‑1 Nations League stalemate against Germany. He was one of three players, alongside Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala, to sustain knocks in the match. Germany’s opener, scored by Felix Nmecha, provoked a furious response after the Dutch side refused to halt play while Brobbey was injured.

United bench role

Zirkzee has yet to start a Premier League game for Manchester United this campaign. All four of his appearances for Michael Carrick’s side have come from the bench, totalling 70 minutes of action. United have won only one of those four matches, and the striker has not registered a goal or assist.

Netherlands head coach Xavi opted to call up the United forward, overlooking veteran Memphis Depay and Wout Weghorst. The decision surprised many, especially after summer rumours linked Zirkzee with moves to Napoli, Roma, Aston Villa and a late push from Fiorentina. The Dutch boss appears intent on sticking to his original plan despite the injuries.

Man Utd striker Zirkzee gets Netherlands call-up after Brobbey injury

Upcoming Nations League fixtures

The Netherlands will seek their first win of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League campaign when they travel to Belgrade to face Serbia on Sunday evening. They then host Greece at the start of October before concluding the extended break with a return clash against Serbia next month. Cody Gakpo’s late strike secured the point in the previous 1‑1 draw with Germany.

Brobbey’s withdrawal is described as a huge blow for Xavi’s plans, with Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk calling Germany’s opening goal a “disgrace”. The Dutch side will now rely on Zirkzee to provide the extra attacking option.

Zirkzee replaces Brobbey while Netherlands reserves train in Zeist

With the squad reshuffled, the Netherlands aim to convert the point from the Germany draw into a victory against Serbia. Success could set the tone for the remainder of their Nations League campaign.