Iqbal is set to join Dutch side Utrecht (Picture: Getty)
Manchester United starlet Zidane Iqbal has confirmed he is leaving the club in a passionate open letter to supporters.
The 20-year-old, who has been at the club since he was five years old, will leave Old Trafford to join Dutch side Utrecht in a deal said to be worth less than £1million.
After making his club debut in a Champions League group stage clash against Young Boys in 2021, the midfielder impressed during United’s pre-season campaign last summer, Erik ten Hag’s first in charge at the club.
Iqbal however failed to register a single minute of senior football during the 2022-23 campaign, making the match day squad on 17 occasions.
In an emotional message shared on Instagram, the youngster explained it is ‘the time to go and take on a new challenge’ ahead of his move to Netherlands.
‘Manchester United has been my home since I was five years old. Alongside my family, this club developed me into the person I am today.
‘From the Cliff to Carrington and then to the Theatre of Dreams, I have so many incredible memories of my fifteen years associated with this amazing club.
‘I have had the opportunity to play with so many teammates that I will now always call friends and worked with coaches who always supported me in so many different ways.’
He continued: ‘I’ll never forget standing on the touchline at the Theatre of Dreams waiting to come on for my debut. That feeling of pride will live with me forever.
‘Representing Manchester United in Europe is one of the biggest honours you can have in your career. People don’t realise the amount of work and dedication that goes into achieving a debut and living out your dream.
‘The fans were amazing with me that day. You’ve always given such love and support to myself and my family. Trust me it did not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
‘I’ll always be a United fan and I’ll always love this club.
‘The time is right to go and take on a new challenge. It is one that I cannot wait for I’ll be applying myself with the same level of desire, determination and dedication thar has taken me this far in my career.’
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The 20-year-old spoke out on his exit in a lengthy statement.