‘No Memphis or Weghorst!’ – Why Xavi Hernandez chose Joshua Zirkzee after Brian Brobbey injury blow

Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee has earned a surprise recall to the Netherlands squad after Brian Brobbey suffered a hamstring injury against Germany.

With the Sunderland forward forced off during the Netherlands’ 1-1 Nations League draw, head coach Xavi Hernandez opted for Zirkzee ahead of more experienced options such as Memphis Depay and Wout Weghorst.

The decision gives Zirkzee an opportunity to revive his international career after nearly two years away from the Oranje setup.

Zirkzee recalled after Brobbey injury

Brobbey was forced off shortly after the half-hour mark during Thursday’s Nations League clash with Germany at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

The striker appeared to clutch his hamstring before going down, leaving the Netherlands with limited options in the centre-forward position.

Germany continued their attack despite Brobbey remaining on the pitch, with Felix Nmecha eventually opening the scoring.

The KNVB subsequently confirmed that Brobbey would be replaced in the squad, prompting Xavi to bring in Zirkzee.

Why Xavi chose Zirkzee over Memphis and Weghorst

Brobbey’s injury left debutant Mexx Meerdink as the only natural centre-forward available in the squad after Donyell Malen had already withdrawn.

That forced Xavi to look for an additional attacking option ahead of the Netherlands’ upcoming away fixtures.

While Memphis Depay and Wout Weghorst were among the experienced names considered in the aftermath of Brobbey’s injury, Xavi ultimately chose Zirkzee.

The Manchester United striker has not represented the Netherlands since November 2024 and has six senior international caps to his name.

His recall therefore comes as something of a surprise, particularly given the availability of two more experienced options.

Zirkzee gets chance to revive Netherlands career

Zirkzee’s return comes after a difficult period at Manchester United, where he has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter this season.

His limited involvement at Old Trafford has contributed to his prolonged absence from the Netherlands squad.

However, the 25-year-old’s technical qualities appear to have worked in his favour.

Xavi’s preference for forwards who can drop deep, combine with team-mates and contribute to the team’s build-up has created an opportunity for Zirkzee to return to the international fold.

Rather than simply selecting a traditional target man, the Netherlands boss has opted for a striker capable of offering a different dimension to the attack.

Zirkzee set for Netherlands medical

Zirkzee is expected to report to the KNVB headquarters in Zeist on Friday evening, where he will complete his medical checks before joining the squad.

The recall gives the Manchester United forward an immediate opportunity to remind Xavi why he was considered worthy of a place in the Netherlands setup.

For Zirkzee, it could also represent the beginning of a much-needed international revival after almost two years away from the Oranje.