Manchester United's attacking woes have been in the limelight this season. Rasmus Højlund, who joined Old Trafford with expectations of establishing himself, has had a tough time finding his feet in the Premier League. His performances have led to questions regarding the signing of a more established goal-scorer. But ex-footballers and pundits believe Højlund also needs to be given time and more time at United.
This article talks about Højlund's impact, his recent performances, United transfer gossip, and why patience could be the way forward for the club.
Højlund's Journey at Manchester United
Rasmus Højlund joined Manchester United in August 2023 in a high-profile transfer that showcased the club's confidence in his abilities. The Danish forward was thought to be a long-term talent, likely to become a prolific goal-scorer for the Red Devils.
But his Premier League adaptation has been hit and miss. The Premier League's physical and tactical conditions have stretched him to the limit, with resulting sporadic performances. But despite all his shortcomings, everybody thinks he has the right attitude to succeed.
Performance Analysis: 2024/2025 Season
The new season has been no cakewalk for Højlund. At the time of writing in March 2025, he has made 23 Premier League appearances and scored two goals. Such figures might look disappointing at first glance, but further inspection indicates that he has been unfortunate in front of goal.
According to Premier League statistics, Højlund is one player with an excellent work rate, and he is vital in making telling runs and bringing opportunities for others. His non-penalty expected goals (npxG) per 90 minutes stands at 0.17, indicating that he is getting into goal-scoring positions but lacks the finish.
Højlund's Recent Breakthrough Moment
One of the defining moments in Højlund's campaign occurred in Manchester United's 3-0 victory against Leicester City on March 16, 2025. The Danish striker broke a 22-match goalless run, scoring in the 28th minute to give his team the lead. This was an important moment for his confidence and may prove a turning point for his campaign.
Post-match, United manager Ruben Amorim lavished praise on the fighting spirit of Højlund, declaring he is starting to see improvements in the striker's game. (Read more on Reuters)
The Importance of Attitude in Player Development
Manchester United legend Gary Pallister has spoken on record to assert that Højlund's attitude is perhaps his greatest asset.
"I love the attitude of the kid. You can't fault him for wanting to run, for wanting to work, for wanting to get fit," Pallister stated in Express Sport.
While conceding that Højlund must be able to bring more to his game, Pallister feels that United cannot let him go yet.
Transfer Rumors: Will Manchester United Sign a Fresh Striker?
Despite Højlund's assurance, there are rumors that Manchester United is on the lookout to sign a new striker over the summer transfer window. The failure of the team to score consistently has resulted in this being a top priority for the management.
Two of the most widely mentioned names linked with United are:
- Viktor Gyökeres – The Sporting CP striker has prospered under manager Ruben Amorim's tutelage and is a leading priority target. United have supposedly reserved funds to sign him.
(Learn more on United In Focus) - Victor Osimhen – Napoli forward, loaned out to Galatasaray, has been in sensational form, scoring 20 goals in 22 games in the Turkish Super Lig. Several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool, are monitoring his status. (Read more on TalkSPORT)
Why Manchester United Should Be Patient with Højlund
Although the signing of a good striker might solve United's goal problem, abandoning Højlund too early is a mistake.
Young Players Take Time – Højlund is just 21 years old and is still learning. Good strikers such as Harry Kane and Didier Drogba also had bad beginnings before becoming world-class strikers.
Work Ethic and Determination – Højlund has shown a positive mentality and eagerness to improve himself. His Leicester goal could be a portent of things to come.
Squad Depth is Important – If United is not on the cusp of signing a new striker, keeping Højlund as a cover or rotation provides depth in case of injury or fixture congestion.
Conclusion: What's Next for Højlund and Manchester United?
The remainder of the 2024/2025 season will set the destiny of Rasmus Højlund. If he can improve his finishing and score more goals, he could very well have a long-term future at Old Trafford.
But Manchester United's summer transfer plan will be the determinant. If a new striker is brought in, Højlund will have to prove he deserves a spot in the team.
For now, his application and recent performances suggest that United need to be patient. While a marquee signing may be needed, Højlund needs more time to prove his worth.
What's your opinion? Should Manchester United have faith in Højlund or bring in a new striker over the summer? Let us know in the comments!
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