Rasmus Hojlund is still seeking his maiden Premier League goal after his first seven appearances in the top division.
The 20-year-old was named in Manchester United’s starting 11 to face Manchester City on Sunday in hopes of being the difference-maker up front in a heated derby clash.
However, he aided City on their way to opening the scoring by fouling Rodri in the penalty area during a corner. After a VAR check, the away side were awarded a soft, but not unexpected, spot-kick. It was converted by Erling Haaland.
Despite the costly mistake, Hojlund was still one of the only players in red to actually put up a fight; his pressing was relentless against City’s frustrating dominance in possession, and it’s a great shame that his first goal couldn’t have come yesterday.
The Old Trafford faithful were left puzzled by Erik ten Hag’s decision to substitute Hojlund in the 73rd minute. At the time, United were 2-0 down and frantically trying to create something that could’ve changed the result, so it seems bizarre to take off your first-choice No.9.
Fans let their feelings be known when the young Dane left the pitch, as loud boos were heard ringing around the stadium as he took his place on the bench. Alejandro Garnacho then entered the fray.
Ten Hag explains Hojlund substitution
Post-match, Ten Hag was asked by reporters why he had opted to withdraw the striker. He replied (via ManUtd.com): “I have to protect Rasmus Hojlund and I have to protect the team. He is putting so much effort in pressing, going in the transitions, going long ways, being in the fight, a tough opposition. Then we are losing the game 2-0 and you are taking him off and he is not used to it – three games a week.
“So as I said, I have to protect him and I also have to protect the team, to bring some energy in – we have bench players, so we have Mason Mount, we have Alejandro Garnacho and we know he can change games. We bring them in and that is the argument why.”
