Former United Star Outraged: Jersey Number 11 Sparks Debate

Ex-United winger Gordon Hill is furious that Joshua Zirkzee received the number 11 shirt. New manager Ruben Amorim aims to lead the club back to victories.

Former "Man Utd" winger Gordon Hill is infuriated that the club has handed the number 11 jersey to Joshua Zirkzee. The "Red Devils" have had a dismal start to the new Premier League campaign, with Erik ten Hag losing his role after managing just three victories in the opening nine matches.

New manager Ruben Amorim held his initial training session at "Man Utd" eight days ago after interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy added four points to their tally in two matches. Amorim began with a 1-1 draw against "Ipswich Town" on Sunday, with Marcus Rashford's opener equalized by a deflected long-range shot from Omari Hutchinson.

Currently, "Man Utd" stands 12th in the Premier League table, with only "Everton", "Crystal Palace", and "Southampton" scoring fewer goals this season. Rashford now has two Premier League goals this season, while Rasmus Hojlund and Zirkzee each have one, with the latter facing considerable criticism since his summer move from "Bologna".

Former "Man Utd" winger Hill—who netted 39 goals in 101 league appearances for the "Red Devils"—is outraged that Dutch international Zirkzee has been assigned the cherished number 11 shirt at "Old Trafford". Hill wrote on X: “What irks me is that Zirkzee has the number 11 on his back—is someone taking the mickey? It's a cherished number, worn by great wingers.”

Hill added: “Take away the numbers as they mean nothing anymore. No wonder there's no pride in putting on just a shirt with your name on it. I made that number mine.”

Former "Arsenal" defender Bacary Sagna believes that the players have warmed up to Amorim, as he pays attention to "little details" like "hugging players".

Sagna told Mega Dice: “It's time for "Man Utd" players to refocus. Ruben Amorim has been thriving in Portugal, and I think he is a great coach. Not only is he a great technical coach, but you can see how much emphasis he places on little details: hugging players, smiling, bringing positive energy with a smile on his face. He's a highly approachable coach.

You can set high standards without being at odds with your players. You don’t have to manage like an authoritarian who builds a barrier between themselves and the players. The players should naturally respect the coach, especially if he treats them as equals. I think sometimes managers can stumble when they perceive themselves as above their players.

There will be a natural respect between Amorim, his team, and his players. Players are savvy enough to understand their boundaries and how far they can go with a manager. They know the limits, and when players cross those limits, issues can arise. For Amorim and the United squad, they need to cultivate the right atmosphere to achieve success.”