Arjun Menon
Rasmus Hojlund has delivered a timely reminder of his potential just as Manchester United are weighing up a major decision on their forward line. In a commanding 3-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final first leg, Hojlund’s aggressive pressing and intelligent movement proved pivotal in securing a dominant result at San Mamés.
While Bruno Fernandes notched a clinical brace and Casemiro added another to seal the win, it was Hojlund who drew the decisive penalty to put United 2-0 ahead. His physicality, hold-up play, and sharp decision-making stood out, even more so given the patchy form he has shown throughout a challenging campaign that has yielded just nine goals in 47 appearances across all competitions.
Coach Amorim’s Endorsement
United boss Ruben Amorim was unequivocal in his praise following the match, calling it Hojlund’s “best game” since the coach took charge. “He helped the team a lot. He secured the ball and made the runs, and then decided quite well. It’s a good moment for him,” Amorim stated during the post-match press conference. “But like Harry [Maguire], he needs to understand that everything can change.”
Future Uncertainty Amid Gyokeres Links
Despite this strong showing, Hojlund’s place at Old Trafford next season is anything but certain. Manchester United are actively seeking a new striker this summer, and Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres is believed to be their top target. The Swedish forward is also attracting interest from Atletico Madrid, intensifying the race for his signature.
There’s also growing talk of interest in Hojlund from Serie A clubs. A loan move has not been ruled out, though it’s just as plausible he remains in Manchester as a rotational option—especially given Joshua Zirkzee’s long-term injury and the lack of depth in United’s centre-forward department.
Should United Stick With Hojlund?
Was it ever realistic to expect a 22-year-old to lead the line for a club of Manchester United’s stature? Likely not. And yet, Hojlund’s ceiling remains high. With Zirkzee operating more effectively in deeper areas and young prospect Chido Obi also emerging, a forward group featuring Gyokeres, Hojlund, and Obi could offer tactical variety and squad depth.
Unless a substantial bid arrives for the Danish international this summer, keeping him as part of the squad—albeit in a reduced role—could be a smart move for the Red Devils.
📢 Final Whistle
Hojlund’s recent surge in form forces Manchester United to consider whether they already have a gem worth polishing, even as they scout for star power elsewhere. With big decisions ahead, the pressure is now on the club to strike the right balance between ambition and development.