Born on May 22, 2001, Joshua Orobosa Zirkzee is a Dutch footballer recognized for his role as a forward for Manchester United in the Premier League and as part of the Netherlands national team.
Joshua Zirkzee recently signed a five-year deal to represent Manchester United in England’s top division. His career highlights include remarkable achievements.
Before catching the eye of Bayern Munich, the 23-year-old forward honed his skills at the youth academies of ADO Den Haag and Feyenoord in the Netherlands.
Following injuries to midfielders Teun Koopmeiners and Frenkie de Jong, Ronald Koeman included Zirkzee in the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024.
At 18, Zirkzee made an unforgettable debut for Bayern Munich, scoring two goals in back-to-back victories against Freiburg and Wolfsburg in December 2019.
Zirkzee’s development as a player has been shaped by his adaptability and technical skill. Known for his composed finishing and vision on the field, he has proven to be a versatile forward capable of creating opportunities for teammates. His physical presence and ability to hold up the ball make him a key asset in high-pressure matches.
In addition to his club successes, Zirkzee has consistently impressed on the international stage. Representing the Netherlands at various youth levels, he gained recognition for his goal-scoring abilities and tactical awareness. His inclusion in the senior national team reflects his growth and potential as a player.
Off the pitch, Zirkzee is known for his dedication to fitness and continuous improvement. His disciplined approach to training and recovery has helped him bounce back from injuries and maintain peak performance.
- Joshua Zirkzee: Developing as a Football Talent
- Joshua Zirkzee’s Family Background
- Joshua Zirkzee and Celina Kerr
- Joshua Zirkzee’s Club Journey
- Joshua Zirkzee on the International Stage
- Joshua Zirkzee’s Transfer Timeline
- Joshua Zirkzee’s Playing Characteristics
- Joshua Zirkzee’s Injury Challenges
- Joshua Zirkzee’s Earnings and Sponsorships
Joshua Zirkzee: Developing as a Football Talent
Joshua began his journey at VV Hekelingen before transitioning to Spartaan ’20. His cousin, Nelson Amadin, shared these early steps with him. Zirkzee’s potential was quickly recognized, leading to his recruitment into Feyenoord’s youth academy.
During his time there, Zirkzee refined his skills and became a more effective forward. Growing up immersed in the rich football heritage of the Netherlands further fueled his passion for the sport.
His development at Feyenoord highlighted his ability to adapt to different roles on the pitch. Coaches noted his natural goal-scoring instinct and his ability to read the game, traits that set him apart from his peers. Zirkzee’s performances caught the attention of scouts, paving the way for his move to Bayern Munich’s renowned youth system.
At Bayern Munich, Zirkzee faced new challenges and opportunities, competing against some of the best young players in Europe. The rigorous training environment helped him grow tactically and physically, preparing him for the demands of professional football. His ability to stay composed under pressure became evident during crucial matches.
Additionally, Zirkzee’s technical skill set, including his first touch and passing accuracy, evolved significantly during his formative years. These attributes, combined with his height and strength, made him a versatile forward capable of contributing to both build-up play and finishing.
Zirkzee’s early journey is a testament to his determination and passion for football, setting the stage for his remarkable rise in the professional ranks.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Family Background
Joshua was born to a Dutch father, Remco, and a Nigerian mother, Doris. Doris, originally from Nigeria, later moved to the Netherlands. Through his mother, Joshua has roots in the Isoko Tribe of Delta State, Nigeria, despite never living in the country or speaking its local languages.
At the age of five, Joshua’s parents relocated to Spijkenisse and enrolled him in VK Hekelingen’s youth academy to provide better opportunities for him and his siblings, including his younger brother Jordan. This move marked the beginning of Joshua’s promising football journey in the Netherlands. His parents actively supported his passion by nurturing his talent and enhancing his training environment.
Without their encouragement, Joshua’s progress would have been much harder. His father, Remco, even tolerated the marks left on their walls from endless football practice at home. Remco also served as a mentor, offering advice and constructive feedback after games, which helped Joshua refine his skills and maintain focus on his goals.
Joshua once remarked in an interview, “I have a very close bond with my father, Remco. We talk almost every other day, and he tries to attend as many games as possible, even though my parents still live in Holland.” Remco has been one of Joshua’s most devoted supporters and plans to watch him play against Monza on Sunday.
Doris, though stricter, often found herself exasperated by Joshua’s fearless spirit and unwavering dedication to street football. She ensured that he balanced his education and sports commitments, instilling in him the discipline that has been vital to his career. Doris remains deeply proud of her son’s achievements, often sharing her joy with friends and family in Nigeria.
Both parents continue to play an essential role in Joshua’s life, offering guidance and motivation as he navigates the challenges of professional football. Their unwavering belief in his talent serves as a foundation for his ongoing success on and off the field.
Joshua Zirkzee and Celina Kerr
Joshua is in a relationship with Celina Kerr, a model and Instagram influencer with over 100,000 followers. Celina, who was born on October 14, 2000, holds a degree in communication and media management. At 24, she is a year older than Joshua and continues to support his football career. The couple has been together for several years, often sharing glimpses of their relationship on social media, where they are celebrated for their chemistry and mutual support.
Due to her remarkable career in modeling, she occasionally features in promotional campaigns for a range of brands. She has been spotted endorsing fashion, beauty, and wellness labels, including Only, Missy Empire, Boohooman, and Revolve. Celina’s vibrant online presence is marked by her creative styling and her ability to connect with a diverse audience, making her a sought-after personality in the influencer space.
Celina also actively participates in charity events and uses her platform to raise awareness about mental health and environmental conservation. Her travels across Europe often highlight her stays in luxurious hotels, with snapshots showcasing breathtaking destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Paris, and the Swiss Alps. These posts not only reflect her love for travel but also inspire her followers with lifestyle and fashion tips.
As a supportive partner, Celina is frequently seen attending Joshua’s matches, cheering him on from the stands. Their relationship exemplifies a strong bond of mutual respect and encouragement, with Celina balancing her professional commitments while being a constant presence in Joshua’s life. Together, they continue to inspire fans with their dynamic personalities and achievements in their respective fields.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Club Journey
Joshua Zirkzee started his professional football career at Bayern Munich, where he made his senior debut in December 2019. Displaying exceptional goal-scoring abilities, he quickly established himself as a capable forward. In January 2021, Zirkzee was loaned to Parma.
Unfortunately, injuries limited his appearances to only four matches during his time in Italy. During the 2021–2022 season, he played on loan for Anderlecht in Belgium, finishing as the team’s top scorer with 16 goals and contributing 9 assists. Zirkzee also delivered crucial performances in UEFA Champions League and Bundesliga matches.
In 2022, Zirkzee transferred to Bologna before making a high-profile move to Manchester United in July 2024. The club views him as a vital addition, with expectations for him to enhance his skills and contribute to their success.
Joshua Zirkzee on the International Stage
Zirkzee has represented the Netherlands across various youth levels, including U15, U16, U17, and U19. His consistent performances in these age groups drew attention from scouts and supporters alike, helping him establish himself as a rising star in Dutch football. His ability to score goals and create key plays for his teams made him a standout player in youth competitions, earning him numerous accolades and the admiration of coaches and fans.
On June 12, 2024, he was called up to the Netherlands senior team for the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany. His inclusion in the squad marked a significant milestone in his career, as he had been steadily building his reputation in European football. Zirkzee’s selection came after injuries to key midfielders Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners. Head coach Ronald Koeman recognized Zirkzee’s potential, giving him his senior team debut during the prestigious tournament.
On July 6, during a 2-1 win over Turkey in the quarterfinals, Zirkzee became the third Dutch player to debut at a European competition, following Martien Vreijsen (1980) and Cody Gakpo (2020). His strong performance in this match was a clear demonstration of his skill and composure under pressure, impressing fans and analysts alike. Zirkzee’s ability to adapt to international football at such a high level suggests he could be a valuable asset for the Netherlands in the coming years.
As his career progresses, Zirkzee is expected to play an increasingly pivotal role in the Dutch national team. His versatility as a forward, combined with his experience in top-tier European leagues, positions him as a key figure for both club and country. With his dedication to improvement and his natural talent, Zirkzee has the potential to become one of the leading figures in international football, making significant contributions in future tournaments.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Transfer Timeline
Joshua Zirkzee officially joined Manchester United in July 2024, signing a contract set to expire on June 30, 2029. His estimated market value stands at €50,000,000. Before his transfer, he had a successful stint with Bologna FC.
Manchester United acquired Zirkzee for €27.5 million during the 2022–2023 season. As a center-forward, Zirkzee required time to adapt to his new team. Over the course of the season, his contributions grew increasingly impactful. His influence extends beyond goals, with his work in the attacking third shaping the team’s overall dynamics.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Playing Characteristics
Joshua Zirkzee excels as a center-forward, combining several key attributes. He possesses an innate ability to find the back of the net. His precise finishing, whether through powerful strikes or well-placed shots, reflects his understanding of the game.
His intelligent movement off the ball creates opportunities for himself and teammates. Acting as a target man, Zirkzee holds up the ball under pressure, allowing the team to build attacks and involve others. His aerial prowess makes him a threat during set pieces and crosses, both offensively and defensively.
Physically robust and agile, Zirkzee works tirelessly to press opponents and contribute defensively. His versatility adds immense value to any team he represents.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Injury Challenges
Unfortunately, Joshua Zirkzee has faced multiple injuries throughout his career. A hamstring issue sidelined him for 25 days, causing him to miss three matches. Earlier in the same season, another hamstring muscle injury kept him out for 22 days, resulting in four missed games.
During the 2022–2023 season, Zirkzee dealt with a minor ankle injury that took him out of action for three days. He also suffered an adductor muscle injury that season, which kept him off the pitch for 20 days and three games. Additionally, inflammatory complications required a 40-day recovery period, forcing him to miss four matches.
In previous campaigns, Zirkzee has struggled with lumbago, ligament injuries, and periods of quarantine. Despite these setbacks, he continues to showcase his remarkable talent.
Joshua Zirkzee’s Earnings and Sponsorships
Joshua Zirkzee’s current contract with Manchester United runs until June 30, 2029, providing him with five years of gross earnings totaling £27,300,000. For the 2024–2025 season, his annual base salary is £5,460,000, equivalent to £105,000 per week, excluding bonuses.
While details about Zirkzee’s other endorsements remain unclear, he maintains a long-term partnership with ADIDAS as his boot sponsor. As a promising young talent, he is likely to attract additional sponsorship deals in the future.
