Jaap Stam, a former Manchester United defender, has encouraged current interim manager Michael Carrick to include Joshua Zirkzee in the team, following the Dutch forward's failed summer transfer. Zirkzee, who joined United in 2024 for £36.5 million from Bologna, has struggled to make an impact, scoring just five goals in his two Premier League seasons. Although several Italian clubs, including Juventus and Napoli, showed interest in Zirkzee during the summer transfer window, United opted for a direct sale instead of a loan deal. Everton also tried to sign him on deadline day, but the deal fell through as United couldn't find a suitable replacement. Zirkzee has yet to play a single minute this season under Carrick, who appears hesitant about his role in the team. Stam, however, believes Zirkzee still has potential and argued that United did not need to sign a new striker this summer. "I don't think they needed a striker this summer because I believe in [Lukas] Sesko and I think [Joshua] Zirkzee can still do well for United," Stam said. He emphasized that the club should have focused on strengthening other areas, particularly the winger position, which is crucial to their playing style. Stam highlighted the importance of a strong winger, pointing to Marcus Rashford's contributions but questioning his long-term consistency. He also praised Bryan Mbeumo’s versatility, suggesting that a dedicated winger would better suit United's needs. In this context, Stam mentioned Bradley Barcola, who moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Liverpool for £123 million. Barcola helped PSG win two Champions Leagues and was part of France’s World Cup-winning squad. However, Stam acknowledged that United has its own transfer strategy and that he is not in a position to influence their decisions directly. Carrick’s team is set to return to the Champions League on Thursday, facing Shabab Al Ahli, before a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday. As the team prepares for these matches, the debate over Zirkzee’s role and the need for new signings continues to be a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike.