Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee: “I want people to have fun when they come to see me”

Bologna striker and Premier League-linked star Joshua Zirkzee has revealed that he sees himself as a street footballer and he wants people to have fun when they come to see him play.

Zirkzee has impressed in Serie A this season and he has drawn links with the likes of Milan, Napoli, Arsenal and Manchester United. The 22-year-old has been a vital cog in the wheel for Thiago Motta’s side, who are pushing for a Champions League spot.

The striker recently spoke to Corriere della Sera about himself, his situation and his future at Bologna. He stated that he sees himself as a street footballer.

“If you play on the street you often do it against older guys. You have to find a way to protect yourself, develop more skills, you have to be faster, stronger, have better technique. You want to impress the big guys, earn their respect, show them who’s the best. And when you enter a real training center, certain things stay with you and make the difference.”

He was asked about whether he still wants to impress those watching and the Dutchman said: “Often yes. I want people to have fun when they come to see me. But more than individually, it is better to impress the stadium as a team, in the way of playing. Bologna has done it more than once this year. Being creative is important.”

When asked further about creativity, he said: “It’s the best way to express yourself. Creativity at the service of the team is a lethal combination.”

He also spoke about his playing style and he revealed that he prefers being a striker who has another forward playing alongside him, as he prefers to come deeper to receive the ball.

“I’m not a pure center forward. I said a year ago that I liked playing with an attacking partner. But Motta transformed me into a 9 and a half. I’m not an Arnautovic type, I like to come forward after playing the ball and help the team. And score goals.”

While that would send a message to potential suitors, Zirkzee also stated that his technique is the best asset, revealing admiration for Alessandro del Piero and Roberto Baggio.

“Without a doubt the gift is the technique: it is the way of showing everyone my essence. You say I’m spectacular? Well, I’m Dutch: this is the most correct definition.”

Kaustubh Pandey | GIFN