Rasmus Hojlund has made a daring declaration that he has “a lot to prove” following his rather unceremonious exit from Manchester United.
The Danish international sealed a deadline day loan move to Serie A champions Napoli despite hoping to stay and fight for his place at United.
Hojlund, who joined the Red Devils in 2023 with high expectations, has reluctantly moved to Italy in search of more regular minutes following a turbulent second season at Old Trafford.
The deal also includes a clause that will make the switch permanent for £38m if Antonio Conte’s side qualify for the Champions League, suggesting this could be more than just a short-term arrangement for the Neapolitans.
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Why did Hojlund leave United?
Following United’s big-money additions in the summer, including Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha, it became increasingly clear that there would be minimal opportunities afforded to Hojlund this season.
Ruben Amorim’s ruthless squad overhaul had already forced Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, and Marcus Rashford out of the club.
While Hojlund was not formally told to go, it seems the writing was already on the wall as Amorim had reportedly lost faith in the striker.
Rather than risk another season on the fringes, the Dane opted for a move that could give him more game time ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
Hojlund’s first words as a Napoli player
Arriving in Naples to join previous Premier League heroes Conte, Kevin De Bruyne, and fellow former United outcast Scott McTominay, Hojlund spoke openly about his hunger to deliver for his new club.
“It’s different now, obviously, as I come with more experience and I’m a better football player,” the striker said.
“I come with a lot of international experience, I played in the Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, and in multiple countries.
“I come with a lot to prove, I want to show myself in the best team in Italy, and Napoli is going to be very, very good.
“I always work hard, I like to say I want to die on the pitch, to give everything for the team, to score goals, create, and fight for everything.
“I’ve been looking forward to this opportunity, I’m very, very grateful and I’m going to do my best to make us win something this year again, and to do the fans and club proud.”
The striker joined United in 2023, where he managed 10 Premier League goals in his debut campaign, but his form dipped dramatically last season, netting just four in the league, though he did manage six more in the Europa League.
At Napoli, Hojlund is expected to play a central role immediately, especially with Romelu Lukaku sidelined through injury.
His return to Italy offers a chance at revival in a league he already knows well, and perhaps the perfect platform to remind Europe – and United – of his talent.
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