Amorim gives reason for dropping Hojlund and bringing in Zirkzee to the Man Utd attack

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim said squad rotation is the primary factor with Joshua Zirkzee coming in for Rasmus Hojlund.

He was explaining his decision to make three changes for this afternoon's clash with Brighton at Old Trafford.

The Portuguese manager has brought Harry Maguire, Diogo Dalot, and Zirkzee into the starting XI, replacing Lisandro Martinez, Alejandro Garnacho, and Hojlund.

Maguire and Zirkzee made positive impacts as substitutes during Thursday night’s 3-1 victory over Southampton, while Dalot, who missed that match due to suspension, has been immediately reinstated to the lineup.

He is expected to operate as a left wing-back. With United playing their second match in less than 72 hours, Amorim emphasized the need for rotation to minimize the risk of injuries.

Speaking to MUTV, he explained: "Yes, rotation is necessary. It’s impossible to prepare for every game at this level without rotating players.

"If we don’t, we’ll end up with injuries, and that would be worse than managing the workload by rotating."

Amorim also praised Zirkzee’s recent performances, noting that the forward has earned his starting spot through his contributions in both training and matches.

"Of course, Josh is starting because he has shown everything required: tactical awareness, technical quality, and physical readiness.

"If you demonstrate that in training and games, you earn your chance to start. Josh did a great job, and today, he gets his opportunity."

The rotation highlights Amorim’s intent to manage his squad carefully while maintaining competitiveness in a busy fixture schedule.

It comes as Hojlund has been criticised for his performances recently and generally his contribution to the club in attack since his big money move from Atalanta.

The lack of attacking options at the club has been partly blamed for United's poor position in the league and it is being seen as a key area for reinforcement in the January transfer window.