Michael Carrick: It's great to have Joshua Zirkzee back in Man Utd training

Zirkzee, who previously made his name in Serie A, joined United in 2024 but has struggled to make a major impact at Old Trafford.

He has scored two goals this season, starting just four Premier League matches and largely featuring in limited minutes. Heavy investment in attacking players has seen him pushed down the attacking pecking order, prompting reports of interest from Juventus.

However, United are adamant that the 23-year-old is not for sale and is unlikely to follow former teammate Rasmus Hojlund back to Italy.

Hojlund, the Danish forward, left United in the off-season to join Napoli and has impressed since his move.

Despite that success, manager Michael Carrick has insisted there are no plans to allow a continued exodus of forwards, underlining the club's desire for stability in attack.

"Josh is just trying to work to get fit and get around the group. It has been great to have him back training with the group for the first time," said Carrick.

"That is as far as it goes, for me and for Josh. I am looking forward to working with him. That's it, nothing else has been needed to be said."

Alongside the stance on Zirkzee, United have confirmed the permanent departure of Joe Hugill, who has completed a move to Kilmarnock.

The 22-year-old forward joined United as a teenager from Sunderland but failed to establish himself in the first team. He spent time on loan at Altrincham, Burton Albion, Wigan and Carlisle before sealing his exit. 

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