TEAMtalk reported that Ally McCoist criticised Michael Carrick's use of Manchester United's strikers and reacted to speculation linking the club with Troy Parrott. The report said United's centre-forward situation remains an issue to solve.
McCoist's criticism
McCoist said: "It’s staggering that Manchester United haven’t been playing an out-and-out centre forward."
He also said: "I know Benjamin Sesko has had injury problems, but you look at the success United had with Cole, Yorke, Sheringham, Solskjaer, or later with Ronaldo, Tevez, and Rooney."
McCoist added: "So do United need an out-and-out goalscorer? Yes."
He also said: "I’d like to see Sesko fit and get a run of games because there are goals in him, but it’s a major problem they need to solve."
How United have used their strikers
TEAMtalk said Carrick has largely preferred to use either Matheus Cunha or Bryan Mbeumo as his starting No 9 so far this term. The outlet said Sesko has mainly had to settle for a role as an impact substitute before missing United’s last four matches due to a recurring shin injury.
TEAMtalk said Zirkzee has yet to feature for more than 40 minutes in a single game this season. The report added that Mbeumo has scored in each of United’s last two league matches while operating as a central striker.
TEAMtalk said Zirkzee became the first signing of the INEOS era at Old Trafford in July 2024 when Manchester United paid Bologna £36.5million for him. TEAMtalk said United spent a further £74m on Sesko the following summer.
TEAMtalk said Sesko has managed 14 goals in 38 appearances for United so far.
Parrott links
Recent reports in the Spanish media have claimed United are monitoring Troy Parrott ahead of potential transfer talks for the Real Betis striker.
McCoist added: "I’m not sure Troy Parrott is the complete answer, but United need to address it."
He also said: "The issue is whether United can shop in the Van Nistelrooy, Harry Kane, or Haaland bracket anymore."
McCoist added: "If you’re a world-class number nine today, you’re looking at City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Bayern Munich before Manchester United because you’ve got a better chance of winning trophies."
Transfer search
TEAMtalk said United have been searching for an experienced striker to replace Zirkzee and help Sesko out, with Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta one player linked. TEAMtalk said United have failed to land any such striker.
TEAMtalk said they could address that issue in January, as Zirkzee is expected to move on amid interest from Everton and several Italian clubs.