Rasmus Hojlund Ready for Competition in Manchester United's Attack
Rasmus Hojlund has expressed his readiness for competition in Manchester United's forward line, acknowledging that he "could have done with some help" in previous seasons. Amidst speculation about United's pursuit of additional strikers, including RB Leipzig's sought-after Slovenian, Benjamin Sesko, Hojlund made his presence felt both on and off the pitch in Chicago on Wednesday.
The Danish international scored in United's 4-1 victory over Bournemouth at Soldier Field during the Premier League Summer Series. Hojlund, who netted 10 goals in 52 appearances last season as United finished 15th in the Premier League, remains committed to "staying and fighting" for his place under manager Ruben Amorim.
"My plan is very clear," Hojlund stated after the match. "I intend to stay and fight for my spot, regardless of what happens. Competition is fine with me. It sharpens me. I'm more than ready. I'm feeling sharp, so I welcome everything that comes."
Since joining United in 2023, Hojlund has scored 26 goals in 95 competitive appearances, averaging slightly over a goal every four games. While some argue that too much responsibility has been placed on Hojlund, he acknowledges that he could have benefited from an experienced striker to share the load, especially early on.
"When I arrived, [Anthony] Martial was also here, but he struggled with injuries, so I had to take on a lot of game time," he explained. "I want to play every game, but I could have used some help in sharing the games, especially at the beginning."
Hojlund has shown determination during United's U.S. tour. Against West Ham at the MetLife Stadium, he used his speed and power to create a shooting opportunity, hitting the post. He scored within eight minutes against Bournemouth, converting a cross from fellow Dane Patrick Dorgu.
While his claim to a second goal was disputed, as Amad's shot was officially credited, Hojlund insisted, "It is definitely mine. The ball touched my shin. It's my goal."
After facing criticism for his goal tally over the past two seasons, Hojlund seems focused and rejuvenated. He appears more confident than at the end of last season, when he struggled with self-belief.
Having scored 61 goals for club and country, Hojlund points out that not all strikers reach 100 goals by age 22, highlighting that England's Harry Kane had scored 53 by that age. "I'm still very young," he noted. "People forget that sometimes. I'm only 22. Not every striker scores 100 goals by that age. But I've learned a lot, and I think you can see it in my game. I'm developing and improving on the basics."
Reflecting on the previous season, Hojlund admitted, "Last season was tough on us all. I should have done better, everybody knows. But it's also a team thing. We're going to be better now. We are progressing in the right way and looking forward to what's coming."