Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has been ruthless in his assessment of Rasmus Hojlund’s time with Manchester United.
The 22-year-old Danish striker has had a tough time since completing his move to the club from Serie A Atalanta ahead of the 2023/24 season. To date, he’s found the back of the net just 24 times for the club, and has particularly struggled this campaign, where he’s scored just three times in the league.
His struggles this season has lead to Shearer branding him a “damaged player”.
“I’m looking at a damaged player in Hojlund,” Shearer said on the BBC’s Match of the Day. “He wasn’t ready, and he still isn’t ready, to lead the line at a club the size of Manchester United. Three Premier League goals so far – right now, he looks like someone who lacks the desire or confidence to get into the right areas.”
Get your news on the go, click here to join the News WhatsApp channel.
Shearer pointed out that he believes Hojlund did have potential to have a great career, but added he’s been put in a difficult position with the struggling Premier League giants.
“He’s been thrust into an incredibly demanding situation at a club where, unless you’re exceptional, it’s difficult to succeed. He’s not yet at the stage of his career where he should be leading the line. I do believe there is a good player in there, but the current expectations, coupled with his hefty price tag, are clearly proving too much at this stage.”
Recent media speculation has suggested the club are willing to offload the player as Ruben Amorim looks to rebuild after a difficult season.
The club are currently linked with Nigerian hitman Victor Osimhen, Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, as well as Wolves’ Brazilian attacker Matheus Cunha.
Sport
