After finishing as the top scorer for Manchester United in his first season, there were high hopes that Rasmus Hojlund would experience even more success in his second year.
However, this season has been quite the opposite, with the Dane netting only two goals in the Premier League so far, and his goal drought has now extended beyond 17 matches.
It’s not just the shortage of goals that is affecting the Red Devils; the former Atalanta star is also having trouble accomplishing even fundamental tasks.
This was clearly demonstrated in the 61st minute of United’s match against Ipswich Town last Wednesday, when Leny Yoro executed a perfect Cruyff turn on the edge of the box, leaving the Ipswich defenders bewildered, before sending in a low cross towards the United No 9.
Rasmus struggling big time
Inexplicably, the Denmark international chose to let the ball go, expecting a teammate to be trailing him. A confident striker would typically take a shot, especially when the ball is in a perfect position.
As United legend Rio Ferdinand correctly pointed out, Hojlund appears to be more focused on backing into defenders rather than utilizing his intelligence and speed to outmaneuver his rival.
Although Ruben Amorim has refrained from openly criticizing the 22-year-old, there have been reports suggesting that he is growing frustrated with the young player’s lackluster performances and is considering selling him in the summer.
The Daily Mail has reported that there is a measure of sympathy for Hojlund due to the fact that he is carrying much of the burden alone, with Joshua Zirkzee not being a typical No 9.
The Danish forward stays modest during training, but it is evident to coaches that his confidence is currently at its lowest point.
No confidence at all
“Hojlund is receiving criticism from multiple sources at the moment, and this contributes to the feeling among some within United of sympathy for a 22-year-old who shouldn’t have to carry the entire goalscoring responsibility in the strikers’ area at a club of Manchester United’s stature.
“Club insiders praise his eagerness to learn during training and mention that his attitude has remained constant despite his ongoing lack of goals, but others describe a player whose confidence has been thoroughly shattered throughout this difficult season.”
While INEOS is still considering the option of selling him in the summer, there is an increasing understanding that few teams are likely to come forward with a significant offer due to the striker’s current performance.
Up to this point, most clubs interested in acquiring him are looking for a bargain deal, which indicates that the Red Devils are set to suffer a substantial loss on their £72 million investment.