Joshua Zirkzee opened up about his move to Bologna, the qualities of Marko Arnautovic and his desire to return to Bayern Munich one day.
The 21-year-old Dutch forward left the German giants for the Rossoblu in the summer, joining the Emilia-Romagna side in a deal worth around €8.5m. Zirkzee is a talented striker whose had limited opportunities in the Bundesliga, so he’s hoping to become a first team regular in Bologna under Thiago Motta.
Speaking in a press conference, Zirkzee first discussed his decision to return to Italy after his tough time with Parma.
“It wasn’t a choice related to Serie A but to the club. I have very good feelings towards the club and the coach, that’s why I chose to come here.”
The 21-year-old spoke about his role on the pitch and his admiration of Arnautovic.
“Last year I played in a two up front, I prefer to help the first forward, so right now I would like to play with Arnautovic, not alone.
“I think he is a top player, a strong and technical player, but also mentally he is strong, I always talk to him, he is a great example for us youngsters.”
He revealed that he still dreams of returning to Bayern Munich one day.
“I haven’t really spoken to Nagelsmann, as soon as he heard about my arrival here he said he was really happy and wished me well.
“In the distant future I would like to come back, yes, who wouldn’t like to play for Bayern Munich? It’s a dream come true, a dream come true.”
Finally, Zirkzee revealed who his childhood idol was.
“Ronaldinho.”
Zirkzee developed at multiple Dutch clubs before making the move to Bavaria in 2017 for €150,000. After spending a few years in Bayern Munich’s youth system, he briefly broke into the first team before spending time on loan with Parma and Anderlecht.