Manchester United forward Rasmus Hojlund is eagerly anticipating the new season and the competition for the starting striker position under Erik ten Hag.
Hojlund, 21, had a challenging debut season at Old Trafford, finishing with 16 goals across all competitions. He was the mainstay in United’s attack, often lacking a reliable backup. However, this scenario is set to change.
United have secured a £36 million deal to acquire Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. The 23-year-old netted 11 Serie A goals last season, helping Bologna secure a Champions League spot. Despite stepping down to the Europa League with United, Zirkzee is ready for the challenge.
Standing at 6ft 3in and accustomed to playing as a lone striker like Hojlund, Zirkzee’s arrival means only one of them will likely start for Ten Hag. Hojlund, however, welcomes the competition. He recently posted a picture on Instagram showing himself enjoying a massive tomahawk steak, captioned: “This is how hungry I am for the season to start.”
His teammates reacted positively to the post. Midfielder Mason Mount commented, “Madman,” with laughing emojis. Defender Lisandro Martinez advised, “Enjoy your holidays and stay calm.” While forward Alejandro Garnacho ominously remarked, “It will be scary but not for us.” Centre-back Harry Maguire humorously noted the glass of wine in Hojlund’s picture, writing: “I hope that’s blackcurrant in that glass.”
Zirkzee is set to provide strong competition for Hojlund after completing his medical at United’s Carrington training ground on Friday. United agreed to pay slightly more than his £34 million release clause, allowing them to spread the payment over 3-years.
The former Bayern Munich prospect, who has had loan spells with Parma and Anderlecht, joined Bologna in 2022. He made his debut for the Netherlands last weekend, appearing as a substitute in their quarter-final victory over Turkey. Zirkzee also played injury time against England on Wednesday but couldn’t help Ronald Koeman’s side respond to Ollie Watkins’ late winner.
Zirkzee’s United debut could come as soon as Monday, when the Red Devils face Norwegian side Rosenborg in Trondheim, kicking off their pre-season tour.
Leave a Reply