Rasmus Hojlund faces glaringly poor statistics at Manchester United, with zero goals and zero assists in his performance so far. However, the alarming numbers don’t stop there.
Despite his £72 million price tag, the striker has managed only 16 shots on goal across 12 Premier League appearances since arriving at Old Trafford. Even during the team’s recent exit from European competition in a lackluster 1-0 defeat against Bayern Munich, Hojlund didn’t secure a single touch inside the opposition’s box.
The 20-year-old Danish talent came to United from Atalanta with considerable potential but a relatively modest tally of 18 professional goals. This has raised doubts among many regarding the excitement and anticipation surrounding his arrival.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the spectrum, the 30-year-old Harry Kane, purchased by Bayern Munich for £82 million last summer, has proven his worth. Kane boasts an impressive record of 22 goals and eight assists in 19 matches for the Bundesliga giants, significantly contributing to their success.
As Kane played a pivotal role in Kingsley Coman’s winning goal against United, it prompts the question of where the team might stand if they had acquired the former Tottenham star instead of Hojlund.
Commenting on the situation, Rene Meulensteen, Sir Alex Ferguson’s former assistant, questioned whether the Glazers, the club’s owners, have supported the managers with the right players they desire. Meulensteen highlighted that Kane, a proven goal scorer, would have brought a considerable number of goals to the team, unlike Hojlund, who struggled against Bayern’s defenders.
However, Meulensteen also suggested that blame cannot be solely placed on Hojlund. He pointed out that United’s attacking prowess has been underwhelming across the board this season. Marcus Rashford has managed two goals and three assists, Alejandro Garnacho two goals and one assist, while Antony hasn’t contributed to any goals this term. Even midfielders Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes have scored more than two goals for United in the 2023/24 campaign.
Meulensteen further indicated that Hojlund’s lack of service is due to selfishness among the wingers, who prioritize personal play over providing opportunities to Hojlund. According to Premier League stats, Hojlund has received only eight clear chances this season, emphasizing the need for his teammates to utilize him effectively before drawing conclusions about his performance.