Former Manchester United frontman Mark Hughes has shared his verdict on Ramus Hojlund.
The 20-year-old became yet another big-money signing for the Reds in the summer when he arrived at Old Trafford on a £72 million package deal from Serie A outfit Atalanta.
In the Champions League, Hojlund got off to a flying start by finding the back of the net five times across the six group-stage games, though they ultimately ended up in vain as United exited Europe at the earliest opportunity.
Goals didn’t come easily for him in the Premier League, though. It took the Dane 15 appearances before opening his account against Aston Villa on Boxing Day and while the contribution was a crucial one that won United the game, he certainly would have rather it arrived much sooner.
Hughes talks Hojlund
Hughes, who scored 163 goals for United across two spells, assessed the youngster’s situation while speaking to Sky Sports.
“He’s struggling with the level at the moment,” the Welshman began, as cited by Manchester World. “It’s a huge ask to expect [so much of] a young 20-year-old striker who hasn’t had a great deal of experience at any level. Huge amount of money they paid for him, [and] there’s huge faith in his ability, but at the moment he’s not the finished article.”
“It’s difficult for the young lad at the moment. He shows lots of endeavour, [and] lots of energy, he’s a strong boy. I think he’ll come through but at the moment he’s just a little bit behind where he needs to be.”
