Rasmus Hojlund (foto: Getty Images)
Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund reflects on his recent struggles after scoring his first goal in three months during a 3-0 victory over Leicester City.
Rasmus Højlund has admitted he hasn't been at his best, despite finally ending his 21-game goal drought in Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Leicester City.
The 22-year-old Danish striker, who joined United from Atalanta in August 2023 for £72 million ($93 million), has endured a frustrating season filled with inconsistencies and criticism. However, he found the net after 28 minutes at the King Power Stadium, finishing with his right foot after a Bruno Fernandes assist.
His goal set the tone for a convincing United victory, with Alejandro Garnacho also breaking his own scoring drought before Fernandes sealed the win. The result extended United’s Premier League unbeaten run to four matches.
"I'm still adapting" – Højlund relieved but aware of challenges
Despite ending his dry spell, Højlund acknowledged that his struggles go beyond scoring:
"Obviously, I'm very happy to have scored, and it gives me a lot of confidence," he said. "But it's also about my overall performances. I know I haven’t been at the top of my game as I’d like to be. We’re still adapting to a new system and some positional changes, but I feel like I’m getting better."
Building chemistry under Amorim
Since Rúben Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag as manager in November, Højlund has been adjusting to new tactical demands. The Danish forward described his growing understanding of the coach’s philosophy:
"He wants me to stretch the field, move into channels, and keep defenders busy," he explained. "That’s what I’m trying to do. I think I have a good amount of speed, and that’s part of why I’m here."
United's struggles continue despite win
The victory over relegation-threatened Leicester provided little relief in an otherwise underwhelming Premier League campaign. United climbed only from 15th to 13th place in the standings.
However, the result continued their recent unbeaten run, following a 4-1 Europa League victory over Real Sociedad that secured a spot in the quarter-finals.