When Joshua Zirkzee wonderfully converted Manchester United's first goal of the 2024/25 campaign, it almost felt like the beginning of a new era.
Erik ten Hag compared the feeling post-match to the same euphoria Rasmus Hojlund experienced less than 12 months prior, as he slammed home his first Premier League goal at Old Trafford in the thrilling 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Boxing Day.
But ever since then, Zirkzee has suffered an indifferent spell in the side, with Hojlund now back too from his injury in the summer, it is looking somewhat bleak for the man who arrived for a hefty fee from Bologna in the summer months.
Naturally, it is now established that Zirkzee is not a natural out-and-out forward like United have with Hojlund. His play styles are different, his capabilities are altered.