Zirkzee cites two world-class idols

The forward, bought from Bologna at the weekend, has been described as having some of the same attributes that stood out for his picks.

Firstly, Ronaldinho was described as "for sure, my hero" for the way he used to light up every game with his dazzling skills and infectiously cheerful attitude. 

The Brazilian famously almost joined United in 2003, only to opt for Barcelona when leaving Paris Saint-Germain. He also played for AC Milan, among other clubs.

The samba superstar won 97 caps for his country and wowed fans with his skills, trademark no-look passes, flair and eye for goal.

Ronaldinho won the UEFA Champions League in 2005/06 with Barcelona and the 2002 World Cup with Brazil, after scoring a long-range free-kick against England in the quarter-finals.

In terms of individual honours, he lifted the Ballon d'Or in 2005 and remains a reference point for so many footballers today.

While it has been claimed Zirkzee has close control like Ronaldinho, he has also been likened to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, due to his style. The Swedish legend had a superb spell at Old Trafford late in his glittering career and had fabulous touch and vision, despite his size.

"Zlatan was someone I really looked up to," said Zirkzee.

Zlatan is able to list Ajax, both Milan clubs, Juventus, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain on an extensive footballing CV. In 2016, he joined United on a free transfer from PSG and was a big hit, scoring 29 goals in 53 games. The aggressive hitman also earned 116 caps for his country and was clearly one of the best strikers of his generation.

When picking one over the other, Zirkzee admitted Ronaldinho was probably his favourite.

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