Erik ten Hag has issued new signing Joshua Zirkzee with an urgent warning and laid out a timeline for his progress. 

United signed the Netherlands international from Bologna for £36.5million on July on a five-year deal. 

The striker, 23, has only started training with his team-mates in the past few days.

However, a hamstring injury to Rasmus Hojlund means he could make his debut in today's Community Shield showdown with Manchester City. 

'He will have to make a step up and we will have to help him,' Ten Hag said. 

Ten Hag believes it could take 'some weeks' to fit him in after he signed from Bologna

'It's not like when you have a proper pre-season with the team. He went to the Euros so had to train on his own. We will need time to fit him in and that will take some weeks.'

Zirkzee scored 12 goals in all competitions in 2023-24 and has already had three seasons of top-level football wth Anderlecht and Bologna.

His experience includes European fixtures and a couple of outings at Euro 2024, coming on as a sub as the Netherlands lost 2-1 to England in the semi-finals. 

He has won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich in 2019-20, scoring four goals in nine games as a bit-part player. 

'He is really hungry to do this because he is looking forward and he is also very excited to be coming into the Premier League,' Ten Hag added. 

'To come to Manchester United and on his first occasion go to Wembley, of course that will highly motivate him, that's for sure.

'But he is also short in training, he had a break, he trained individually but he has now had a couple of days in the team training.' 

At least the bedding-in process will be helped by familiarity with one character in Manchester. 

Upon signing for United, he revealed that he had been to school with none other than fellow United star Tyrell Malacia. 

A 'Step Up' is Needed

Zirkzee's arrival at Old Trafford comes at a time of transition for the club, as they look to build upon their FA Cup triumph last season. Ten Hag, however, has highlighted the need for Zirkzee to adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League. This is a significant challenge for any player, but particularly for one who has only recently rejoined the squad after a break following Euro 2024. Ten Hag's comments underline the pressure on Zirkzee to perform from the outset.

The Community Shield: A Test of Fitness and Potential

The Community Shield clash against Manchester City provides Zirkzee with an early opportunity to showcase his abilities. While a debut is not guaranteed, the match offers a chance for Ten Hag to assess his fitness and integration within the team. It's a pivotal moment for Zirkzee to make a positive first impression, but Ten Hag's cautious approach suggests that Zirkzee may not feature from the start. This match could be a stepping stone for him, rather than a defining moment.

The Importance of Integration and Time

Ten Hag emphasizes the importance of a smooth integration for Zirkzee, highlighting that 'some weeks' will be needed for him to settle in. The lack of a proper pre-season and the fact that he trained individually following the Euros, presents a significant challenge in terms of fitness and team chemistry. This suggests that Zirkzee's impact will be gradual and that patience is key for both the player and the club.

Beyond the Community Shield: A Longer-Term Perspective

While the Community Shield holds immediate significance, Zirkzee's journey at United is about longer-term contributions. His experience in Germany, Belgium, and Italy suggest that he possesses the potential to succeed in the Premier League. However, adapting to Ten Hag's system and forming a cohesive partnership with other attackers will be crucial for him to truly flourish. His time with the club will ultimately be defined by his consistency and ability to deliver on a more consistent basis.

'I Love You Almost as Much as Zirkzee': A Testament to His Impact

Zirkzee's departure from Bologna has left a void in the hearts of fans, who have shown their appreciation for his impact. The ‘I love you almost as much as Zirkzee’ messages on cakes, highlights the affection he has garnered. This testament to his abilities and personality, further fuels anticipation for his Premier League adventure. The question now is whether he can replicate this success at a higher level and earn the same level of respect from United's supporters.