Rasmus Hojlund endured yet another frustrating night leading Manchester United’s line as they fell to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal.
The 21-year-old’s goalless display means he has now scored just once in his last eight outings, which came in the closing stages of the Reds’ 4-2 win over now-relegated Sheffield United.
On Sunday, Hojlund managed just one shot throughout his 88 minutes on the pitch as he vied with Arsenal’s resilient backline and failed to get the better of stalwart duo William Saliba and Gabriel.
He’s currently on eight Premier League goals for the term heading into the side’s final two fixtures, a tally that the Old Trafford faithful will be expecting to see increase significantly in the Dane’s sophomore season in 2024/2025.
Fans have been patient this term while Hojlund has adjusted to the English top flight, especially given his young age and the fact that so many signings have struggled to adapt to the role.
His early contributions in the Champions League – five goals in the group stage – gave him credit in the bank as he oversaw a tedious 15-game wait before opening his league account on Boxing Day last year.
Pundits disagree over Hojlund
There are still some concerns over the No.11’s suitability, though. MUTV pundit Danny Webber criticised the forward’s movement during the Gunners contest, in which he only completed 10 passes.
He said of the player: “Rasmus, his form before he got injured was very good.
“He’s got to get on the shoulder. You’ve got to not make it such a fight and not be seen by the centre-halves. It is difficult, I’ve played as a one up top, but you’ve got to then be smart with the runs that you make, running in behind, so that everything isn’t just a wrestle with the centre-halves. It takes your energy away.”
On the other hand, Hojlund does have the co-sign of approval from club legend Wayne Rooney, who was on Sky Sports’ panel for yesterday’s coverage.
“I really like Hojlund,” United’s all-time top goalscorer began. “What I like about him is he is always in a position and always gets chances. He has not always taken them, he has missed chances, but I think for a forward, all you can ask is get in the right positions.
“If you are getting chances, more often than not, you will take them. If he keeps putting himself in the right positions, I think he will be a very good player for them in the next few years.”
