Following Manchester United’s stunning 2-1 victory over local rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, the actions of Joshua Zirkzee, a summer signing for United, have caused an uproar among City fans. United’s dramatic comeback, which featured two quick-fire goals from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo, dealt a significant blow to City’s Premier League title defence.
Zirkzee, who had come on as a substitute in the 78th minute with City leading 1-0, was on the pitch for the crucial moments of the game. Just 12 minutes after his introduction, Diallo’s injury-time winner completed United’s shocking turnaround, sending them into celebration and leaving City players stunned at the sudden collapse.
What caused further outrage among City supporters was Zirkzee’s actions immediately after the full-time whistle. Footage surfaced showing the Dutchman running toward the City fans and appearing to taunt them. His celebratory gestures seemed designed to provoke a reaction from the disgruntled home supporters, mocking them for their team’s failure to hold onto the lead.
United fans, on the other hand, reacted enthusiastically to Zirkzee’s antics, with many praising his boldness. One fan expressed their admiration on social media, writing, “Zirkzee, I love you so much for this!” Others were equally amused, with one commenting, “Hahahhahah what s***housery, love that.” Several fans echoed this sentiment, praising the mentality Zirkzee showed in the heat of the derby and suggesting that such behavior is what United needs to assert their dominance in future matches.
In the aftermath of the match, Zirkzee himself shared a post on social media further celebrating the result, continuing to gloat over City’s loss and relishing the win over their bitter rivals. His actions, however, have drawn mixed reactions, with Manchester City fans clearly upset by his taunts, while Manchester United supporters embraced the boldness and spirit of the young player’s actions in the intense derby.