Media’s Verdict on Rasmus Hojlund After Manchester United 4-1 Bournemouth

Rasmus Hojlund’s tenure at Manchester United felt like a ticking time bomb not so long ago. It was painfully clear going into the summer that a new out-and-out striker was a top priority after the Red Devils finished in 15th place with only four goals in 32 Premier League games the previous season.

Additionally, the INEOS-led organisation hasn’t signed a real number nine despite adding Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha to strengthen the forward line. With just one month left before the transfer window closes, the shortlist has now been reduced to just Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins after missing out on Viktor Gyokeres.

The disgruntled Old Trafford supporters may have to accept the possibility that their Danish forward, who has continuously supported him and finished as the team’s top scorer in his debut 2023–24 season despite criticism, could be given another season with so little time left to finalise a deal. However, based on how the media responded to his most recent performance during United’s 4-1 victory over Bournemouth on Wednesday, a comeback would not be completely out of the question.

How The Media Reacted To Hojlund’s Bournemouth Performance

The lowest rating he received was 7/10

Those who believe that you’re only as good as your last job might argue that Hojlund still has more to offer before leaving the Premier League, even though a recent stat comparison between him and United’s two striker targets only serves to confirm the fan base’s suspicion that the Dane’s time in M16 may be coming to an end.

Hojlund scored with a beautiful header in the eighth minute of a Summer Series friendly matchup with Bournemouth after catching the end of Patrick Dorgu’s in-swinging cross. See the objective below:

However, other publications were quick to highlight the Denmark international’s other efforts, even if his opening appeared to be the primary factor in the Manchester Evening News’ 8/10 player ratings article. He received the same score from United in Focus as well, however they wrote:

He nodded in a header and scored a well-earned goal. He deserved it for his physicality, link-up, and exhibition.

Sports Illustrated gave Hojlund a 7/10 and praised his chances of starting the season, saying, “His future has been called into question, but another strong performance against Everton in their final Summer Series game should be enough to see him start against Arsenal in the season opener.” United District gave him a 7.5/10 and praised his link-up play.

He received another 8/10 from Manchester World, which described his performance as “very good.” It’s reasonable to assume that the Dane will have another opportunity to establish himself in the 2025–2026 season, since Amorim appreciates his link-up play and might greatly benefit from Cunha and Mbeumo’s contributions.