Manchester United News

There are calls for Joshua Zirkzee to be punished, drawing comparisons to a previous Jude Bellingham controversy

The footballer is in the spotlight for a controversial incident during the Southampton match.

By Axel Reyes

The footballer is in the spotlight for a controversial incident during the Southampton match.
The footballer is in the spotlight for a controversial incident during the Southampton match.
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Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has escaped punishment for his controversial goal celebration against Southampton, a decision that has drawn criticism from former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett.

The rude gesture imitating Jude Bellingham

Zirkzee, introduced as a substitute, played a key role in United's 3-1 comeback victory. However, his celebrations following the match overshadowed his performance. After scoring the winning penalty in the FA Cup, Zirkzee joined in the celebrations with his teammates, performing a gesture that drew comparisons to Jude Bellingham's controversial celebration at Euro 2024.

While Bellingham faced criticism for his actions, Zirkzee has avoided any disciplinary action. The FA issued a statement simply reminding Zirkzee of his responsibilities, stating: "As guidance, we have issued Joshua Zirkzee with a reminder of his responsibilities, and he will face no further action."

Criticism of the Football Association

Hackett, however, has strongly criticized the FA's decision. "Once again the Football Association deliver the wrong message to football players across the country," Hackett told Football Insider. "Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee’s very crude celebration which frankly was totally unacceptable is NOT going to receive a sanction. Players at grassroots level have a habit of copying what they see Premier League players do. So when it happens at grassroots level having seen no sanction issued by The FA please advise referees if they sanction or ignore. Come on, you are the gatekeepers of the game and youngsters attending matches should be protected."

Hackett believes that Zirkzee's actions were inappropriate and could have negative consequences, particularly on younger fans. "Doing this in front of the supporters will certainly result in a fine and a strong possibility of a minimum three-match ban. The FA have to take into account that actions of this nature incite the fans and can easily create fans surging forward and potential crushing injuries. A young man who will not doubt receive some operational advice from his club and management," he explained.

This decision has sparked debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning the inconsistency in disciplinary action.


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