Joshua Zirkzee, the Manchester United forward, is now facing potential FA disciplinary action after his controversial goal celebration during United’s 3-1 Premier League win over Southampton on Thursday evening. While the game initially looked set to end in a humiliating defeat for United, they turned the tide in dramatic fashion thanks to a remarkable hat-trick by Amad Diallo. Zirkzee had a limited role in the match, but his celebration afterward has drawn attention.
During Amad’s hat-trick, which was key to United’s comeback from a 1-0 deficit, Zirkzee was spotted making an inappropriate gesture while celebrating. The Dutch forward appeared to grab his crotch in what some observers are calling a distasteful move that could result in a fine or even suspension, especially considering similar incidents in football history.
This kind of behavior has previously landed players in hot water. For example, Jude Bellingham was fined £25,000 and given a one-match ban during Euro 2024 after performing a similar gesture. Even more recently, Cristiano Ronaldo faced similar sanctions when making the same gesture while playing for Al Nassr in 2024.
The FA is known to clamp down on unsporting behavior, especially when it involves gestures deemed inappropriate or offensive. Zirkzee’s actions now raise questions about his conduct on the pitch and whether he will face the same level of scrutiny as other high-profile players involved in similar incidents.
The situation puts additional pressure on United’s forward as he attempts to maintain focus on improving his performances with the team amid the scrutiny surrounding his off-field behavior.