Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund is shining in pre-season, earning praise from manager Ruben Amorim, even as his future at the club remains uncertain amidst transfer market speculation.
Hojlund’s Pre-Season Breakthrough
Rasmus Hojlund recently put on a stellar display against Bournemouth, scoring one goal and assisting another in Manchester United’s dominant 4-1 victory. This performance has drawn significant attention, especially given the club’s ongoing search for new attacking talent.
Manager Ruben Amorim lauded Hojlund’s impressive outing, highlighting more than just his goal-scoring ability. “People focus on the goals, and we suffer a lot because of the lack of goals,” Amorim stated. “But I think not just the goals, but the way he connects the play… The ability for him to hold the defender and to connect in the support is helping us a lot to play better. And we are playing better because he is playing better.”
A Marked Improvement from Last Season
Hojlund’s excellent hold-up play, incisive runs, aggressive pressing, and ability to drop deep were all on display, along with the crucial aspect he struggled with last year: finding the back of the net. Last season saw the Danish striker manage only 10 goals and four assists, facing considerable criticism for his finishing.
His struggles were a constant topic of discussion, though United legend Wayne Rooney consistently defended him. Rooney had previously expressed faith in Hojlund, believing he was a good player who worked hard and simply needed that crucial first goal to spark a scoring run.
Rooney’s Enduring Advice
Wayne Rooney also pointed to a lack of service as a contributing factor to Hojlund’s previous difficulties. He emphasized that strikers often rely heavily on teammates to create chances and deliver the ball into dangerous areas.
Offering advice, Rooney urged Hojlund to simplify his game: “As a striker for Manchester United, when you’re not scoring goals, there’s a lot of pressure… I think the best thing to do is simplify it and making the runs into the penalty box is as easy as it comes, you have to make them runs.” Hojlund’s recent performances suggest he may be taking that advice to heart.
An Uncertain Future Despite Strong Form
Despite his promising pre-season, Hojlund’s place at Old Trafford for the upcoming season is not guaranteed. Rumours suggest the club might consider selling him to fund new signings.
Amorim himself addressed this uncertainty: “I’m really happy with Rasmus, but I don’t know what is going to happen until the end of the market. The important thing is that Rasmus is scoring goals. He’s connecting really well with the team. He’s improving. Again, I don’t know what is going to happen until the market is closed.”
Positive Outlook for the Team
Beyond individual performances, Amorim expressed satisfaction with the team’s overall showing in their pre-season tour in the US. He noted significant improvements in connection, intensity, strength, and speed among the players.
“More than the results, it’s the way they are playing,” Amorim concluded. “I think they are playing better also because they are connecting better with each other, not just on the pitch, but off the pitch.”
- Rasmus Hojlund has shown significant improvement and form in pre-season, impressing with goals and link-up play.
- Manager Ruben Amorim praised Hojlund’s overall contribution and connection with the team.
- Despite his strong performances, Hojlund’s future at Manchester United remains uncertain until the transfer window closes.
- Wayne Rooney had previously supported Hojlund, offering advice on simplifying his game and making runs into the box.
As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on whether Hojlund secures his spot or becomes a part of United’s rebuilding strategy.
