Joshua Zirkzee has sent a heartfelt goodbye to Bologna after completing his transfer to Manchester United, noting the team is ‘finally where it belongs’ in the Champions League.
The Dutch international had a €40m release clause in his contract when arriving from Bayern Munich a year ago for €8.5m.
That was activated, followed by a deal done for slightly higher – up to €45m – allowing Manchester United to spread the cost of the purchase out over a three-year period.
As a result of that clause, up to 50 per cent of the fee went to Bayern Munich.
Zirkzee message to Bologna
The 23-year-old took to Instagram to pen his farewell to the city of Bologna and its fans.
“Grazie, rossoblu. I can’t really find the words to explain how much you all mean to me. The stadium, the city, this team, but especially the PEOPLE will for always have a special place in my heart.
“I hope, that for all the support and trust that you gave me, i have given something back in return. Bologna is finally where it belongs and I will support and cheer for you from a distance! Ti Amo, Bolo. Forever”
Thanks also to his 11 goals and five assists in 34 Serie A appearances, the Rossoblu secured fifth place last season and qualified for the Champions League.
This was possible because the Italian top flight was first in the overall UEFA rankings and earned an extra spot in the new, expanded tournament next season.
Manchester United finished eighth in the Premier League table last term, but as they won the FA Cup, the club has been given a place in the Europa League for 2024-25.
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