Rasmus Hojlund has revealed that Erik ten Hag’s promise of frequent game time and a key role in the Manchester United squad led to him making the switch in the summer.
The Dane arrived at Old Trafford in August on a £72 million (including add-ons) move from Atalanta, with the Serie A outfit making a pretty penny on the £17m they paid for him just 12 months before.
For years, the Old Trafford faithful had been crying out for a young, energetic, pacey and prolific forward who could lead the line for years to come. That wish was granted with Hojlund who, at just 20, has showed signs of becoming one of Europe’s most talented strikers – which is further proven by him being among 25 finalists for the prestigious Golden Boy award.
He has three goals to his name so far, all of which came in the Champions League, so will be keen to net that elusive, debut Premier League goal when he returns following the international break.
Hojlund lifts lid on United move
While on duty with his national team, Hojlund provided some insight into how his widely-covered transfer unfolded. He told Ekstrabladet: “I spoke to the coach [Ten Hag] up until the transfer. For me, it was important to play football and if I had been told that I had to go to Manchester United to be a reserve for the rest of my days, I would never have gone there.
“I went from not having an agent at the beginning of November last year, when my contract with BTAM expired, to my father starting to have conversations with some new ones. From there it is all filtered, and then it ended up where it did.
“Sometimes I can catch myself looking down at the shirt and thinking ‘wow’. I think I’ll always be proud to pull the jersey over my head and that’s what I try to show on the pitch. I don’t get emotional, but I get a little boost.”
