Iqbal signs new deal with Man United
YOUNG British South Asian midfielder Zidane Iqbal has signed a new long-term contract with Manchester United.
The 19-year-old made his debut for the club in a Champions League match against the Swiss team Young Boys at Old Trafford in December last year.
The new deal will keep Iqbal at the Premier League club until at least June 2025, with an option to extend the contract for another year.
Iqbal, who joined United at nine, became the first-ever British south Asian to play for Manchester United when he took the field as a substitute for England international Jesse Lingard in the match against Young Boys.
“It feels amazing, I’ve been working my whole life for this opportunity, it’s a dream come true, it’s just the start and hopefully I can keep pushing on,” Iqbal told MUTV after his debut match.
Iqbal was born in Manchester to a Pakistani father and an Iraqi mother.
He has spoken about the important role his family has played in his footballing journey.
“I come from such a hard-working family. My parents are always working hard, my brother, my grandparents,” he said.
“When we came to this country, they all inspired me to give my best at everything I do.”
The level-headed youngster also revealed the impact former Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil has had on him. “Mesut Ozil (is my hero), because he’s a Muslim like me. Just seeing another Muslim footballer is a good thing,” he revealed.
“The journey is different for everyone, and I can tell you it’s not easy. It’s like a rollercoaster, up and down. You just have to enjoy the ride and whatever’s meant to be is meant to be.”
The attacking midfielder has already played senior international football for Iraq, featuring in two World Cup qualifiers, representing the country of his mother’s origin.
Iqbal’s debut for United came weeks after Dilan Markandey, another British south Asian footballer, made his debut for Tottenham.