Zidane Iqbal insists it is too early to decide whether to leave Manchester United on loan this season.
Iqbal is threatening to become the breakout youngster of United's pre-season tour after impressing as a half-time substitute in the 4-0 win over Liverpool in Bangkok and the 4-1 victory against Melbourne Victory this week. The 19-year-old made his United debut against Young Boys in the Champions League group stage in December and signed a new contract earlier this month until 2025.
Iqbal is effectively the third-choice central midfielder under Erik ten Hag as United fail to make any significant headway with a deal for Frenkie de Jong. United are expected to eventually reinforce their midfield and so Iqbal is reluctant to make a hasty decision on his immediate future.
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"I am not sure. If an opportunity came up to go out on loan, I would weigh up the pros and cons," he explained. "Right now it is too early to say. See what the future holds.
"It's the best feeling [to be playing]. I have grown up loving this club. I have played here since I was eight or nine. To play in front of 90,000 people. It is something I dreamed of. To play here and against Liverpool, even in the Champions League. It is hard to describe.
"I would just like to thank the fans for showing me all the love and support recently. It is an amazing feeling. Thank you."
Iqbal has acquitted himself impressively in United's matches so far, using the ball prudently and maintaining momentum in attacks. The Manchester Evening News wrote in January on how he studies De Jong's style.
"It has been part of my games since I was young, always wanting the ball," he said. "I have told myself ‘this could be the only chance I get in the first team’. I just do what I do and whatever is meant to be will be. I will have no regrets. I will just try to do my best on the pitch and leave it up to God really.
"There is definitely good vibes around the team. It is a new manager, early doors, three weeks, but the ideas he has given us, two good results, everyone is happy in training. Everyone is giving 100 per cent, which is the best kind of atmosphere."
Even at a callow age, Iqbal is already regarded as a trailblazer due to the dearth of British south Asians who play professional football. Iqbal attained his first cap for the Iraq national team for the first time in January.
Iqbal plays a significant role in the PFA's Asian Inclusion Mentoring Scheme and regularly dials into Zoom calls to conduct Q&As with groups of children to aid their development. Does he think there is extra scrutiny because of his heritage?
"Yes and no. It is a bit of both. Obviously, there are not many south Asians playing but if you are good enough, I believe you will make it no matter where you come from. I don’t pay too much attention to it.
"But, yes, there are a lot more people watching what I do because they can... not relate, but kind of. I am just trying to take my journey on. Whatever is meant to be. I will always give 100 per cent in training and matches. If I am inspiring people along the way, that is brilliant."
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