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Zirkzee gives Man United reason for optimism in 2024-25

MANCHESTER, England -- There's nothing like a late winner from a new striker to fuel early-season optimism, and Joshua Zirkzee delivered it for Manchester United and manager Erik ten Hag.

Just when it looked like the Red Devils' campaign would get off to a frustrating start after a series of missed chances, the £36.5 million summer signing from Bologna came off the bench and clinched a 1-0 win over Fulham on Friday with an 87th-minute debut goal. Zirkzee's celebration was relatively composed given what he'd just done, while Ten Hag's reaction -- both fists clenched above his head on the touchline -- was a mixture of joy and relief.