US Edition‘I Needed to Leave Man United to Grow’: Zidane Iqbal on Identity, Iraq and a New Start in Utrecht
GONDOMAR, PORTUGAL, JUL 7 – Manchester United granted Fernandes and Dalot extended compassionate leave and psychological support after attending the funeral of Portugal teammate Diogo Jota and his brother, who died in a car accident.
- Zidane Iqbal, a 22-year-old Manchester-born footballer, moved to FC Utrecht in 2023 to play first-team football in the Netherlands.
- Iqbal left Manchester United because he lacked playing opportunities despite fulfilling all requirements, choosing Utrecht to grow and prove himself in a top league.
- Since joining Utrecht, Iqbal became a starter, overcame injury setbacks, and received strong support from fans and family while balancing commitments to the Iraq national team.
- Iqbal expressed gratitude for fan support, saying, "I just want to pay them back for the support," and noted the welcoming nature of Iraq as an international player with 17 caps.
- Iqbal aims to maintain regular play at Utrecht, complete his two-year contract, and achieve his ambition to participate in the 2026 World Cup for Iraq.
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15 Articles
Dominik Szoboszlai posted about his deceased teammate again
Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot granted extra leave by Man Utd after Diogo Jota death - The Mirror
Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot were team-mates with Diogo Jota for the Portuguese national team and Manchester United will allow them extra time to grieve after his tragic death
Zidane Iqbal opens up on 'frustrating' Man United exit
Former Manchester United wonderkid Zidane Iqbal has opened up on the frustration and sense of disrespect that led up to his departure from Old Trafford. The 22-year-old midfielder was once considered the crown jewel of United’s academy after progressing through the ranks before linking up with the first team. Iqbal joined the Red Devils at just nine years old, but his integration into the first team was far from smooth sailing, especially under …
The Portuguese international, 28 years old, and Brother André Silva, 25, died on the Tuesday of 3 July, victims of a car accident in Spain. A tragedy that left the world of soccer in shock and a country of battle.
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