Utrecht director points out everything United gave up in bargain transfer for academy star

The Red Devils announced last week that they had sold the 20-year-old to the Eredivisie outfit for just £850,000.

It led United fans to express their disappointment at the sale on social media, who had hoped for big things of the Iraq international at Old Trafford.

But Erik ten Hag decided that the midfielder wasn't part of his plans, as he shipped Iqbal off after just one senior appearance.

That came in the 2021/22 season in the Champions League, with Iqbal an unused substitute in 17 first team matches in the previous campaign.

United's loss is Utrecht's gain, as the Dutch club's technical director Jordy Zuidam has pointed out everything Ten Hag chose to give up.

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Lauding the player, he said: "Zidane is a very creative midfielder, with a very good understanding of the game.

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

"Zidane plays with guts and has a high speed of action.

"With his dribbling and passing, he is able to speed up the game. We are very proud that Zidane wants to take the next step in his development at FC Utrecht."

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It appears that United will be keeping a close eye on Iqbal in the Eredivisie next season with a view to potentially bring him back to the Theatre of Dreams.

According to ESPN, United have included a buy-back clause in Iqbal's Utrecht contract.

And they have also inserted a 40 per cent sell on clause.

It has been claimed that United didn't feel as though he was physically ready for Premier League football.

But they will be monitoring his progress at the Stadion Galgenwaard in case he develops his game.