Manchester United's Zidane Iqbal makes the move to FC Utrecht

Manchester United's young midfielder Zidane Iqbal has officially joined Eredivisie club FC Utrecht on a four-year contract.

The 20-year-old has been transferred for an undisclosed fee, with the move pending international clearance.

Iqbal, who is eager for more regular first-team football, will soon embrace this new opportunity to develop his career within a competitive league and a fresh environment.

Reflecting on his move, the club stated, "This presents an opportunity for him to develop his career within a new environment in a competitive league. Everybody would like to wish him the very best of luck for the future."

An Iraq international, Iqbal has been part of Manchester United's fabric since his early years in their pre-Academy programmes. He ascended the ranks to make his senior debut in a Champions League tie against Young Boys in December 2021.

Iqbal took to Instagram to express his gratitude and nostalgia, saying, "From The Cliff to Carrington and then to the Theatre Of Dreams (OT), I have so many incredible memories of my 15 years associated with this amazing club. They’ve all played their role in making me the player that I am today. They know who they are and know how much they mean to me and my family. We’ll be forever grateful."

Iqbal recognizes that moving to FC Utrecht is an essential step in his career.

"The time is right to go and take on a new challenge," he said. "It is one that I cannot wait for and I’ll be applying myself with the same level of desire, determination, and dedication that has taken me this far in my career."

FC Utrecht has warmly welcomed Iqbal. Jordy Zuidam, the club's Technical Director, praised the midfielder for his creativity and game understanding.

"He can intercept balls, uses his body well in duels and is intelligent. In addition, he can be at the start of an attack, thanks to his good short and long pass," said Zuidam.

"We are very proud that Zidane wants to take the next step in his development at FC Utrecht."

Born in Manchester, England, Iqbal joined United's youth academy in 2012, progressing through all age categories before making his first-team debut in the Champions League. Iqbal also made his first appearance for the Iraqi national team in 2022.