As Manchester United succumbed to the unyielding grip of Arsenal, the Red Devils’ woes were amplified by the lackluster performance of striker Rasmus Hojlund. The Danish international, touted as a £64 million signing from Atalanta, failed to leave his mark on the game, confined to a shadowy existence by Arsenal’s imposing center-back William Saliba.
Rio Ferdinand, the Manchester United legend, did not mince words in his critique of Hojlund’s display. Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents show, he likened the striker to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, suggesting that both players struggle against physical defenders. “Saliba looks imposing,” Ferdinand said, his voice dripping with disdain. “Rasmus Hojlund is probably still trying to fight his way out of his pocket right now – it was like a man against a boy yesterday.”
Ferdinand’s words struck a nerve, as Hojlund’s struggles on the pitch painted a picture of a player out of his depth. The striker’s uninspiring performance was marred by his inability to create even a single shot on target, complete a key pass, or successfully dribble past an opponent. The £64 million signing’s struggles will undoubtedly raise questions about his long-term prospects at the club, and whether he can adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League.
The defeat, orchestrated by Arsenal’s set-piece mastery, served as a stark reminder of the Red Devils’ lingering issues. Manchester United’s inability to challenge the Gunners’ aerial threats was a recurring theme throughout the game, with the likes of Jurrien Timber and William Saliba exploiting the space between United’s defense and goalkeeper to devastating effect.
As Ruben Amorim’s side navigates the complexities of the Premier League, the underwhelming performance of Hojlund will undoubtedly feature prominently in the Portuguese tactician’s deliberations. With Manchester United’s attack struggling to find its footing, the signing of the Denmark international is beginning to resemble a costly gamble.
The onus is now on Hojlund to prove his doubters wrong, to muster a response to Ferdinand’s scathing critique, and to show that he has the mettle to push Manchester United’s attack to the next level. Until then, the striker’s future at the club hangs precariously in the balance, as the club’s search for a reliable goal-scorer continues.
