Roland Cutinho
Manager Kasper Hjulmand includes Rasmus Hojlund in Denmark’s squad for September friendlies, indicating a return for Manchester United
Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand has strongly suggested that Rasmus Hojlund might have the opportunity to make his debut for Manchester United in the upcoming Premier League match against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
As revealed by Denmark’s official football Twitter handle (h/t the Manchester Evening News), the 20-year-old striker has been included in his nation’s squad for the September internationals, indicating that he could play a part in United’s next crucial match this weekend.
The Red Devils signed Hojlund from Atalanta this summer, but he has been sidelined due to a back injury. Erik ten Hag recently mentioned that the young ace was close to returning to action.
While expectations may not be too high for an immediate impact, having a natural centre-forward like Hojlund could significantly bolster United’s attack, which has appeared ineffective in his absence.
Man United managed to score only once in their initial matches against Wolves and Tottenham, with Marcus Rashford facing difficulties as the central striker.
The return of Anthony Martial, accompanied by Rashford taking up his preferred left-wing role, made a significant difference in their 3-2 victory against Nottingham Forest last Saturday. Rashford contributed by assisting two goals from the flanks.
Although it seems unlikely that Hojlund will be immediately incorporated into the starting lineup at Emirates, his inclusion in the international squad suggests that he should be available as a substitute if necessary.
While Ten Hag has been tight-lipped when discussing the Danish striker’s potential debut date, it appears that some interesting updates may have been revealed by his international manager, Hjulmand.
While talking to the Danish outlet Bold. dk, he said:
“I’ve been in Manchester to watch Rasmus train and he’s in full gear, so he’ll probably be in the squad for the weekend. There is of course a caveat, and he must show that he is ready this week.”
Denmark have officially announced their squad for the upcoming matches against San Marino and Finland, and Hojlund is included, suggesting that his debut for United could be on the horizon.
The fans might have reason for concern as a player who hasn’t played a single minute this season is set to enter the high-stakes world of international football.
The former Serie A striker will play alongside United teammate Christian Eriksen and Tottenham Hotspur’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who has been linked with a surprise move to Old Trafford.
Although the No. 17 is expected to be included in the squad for Sunday’s game, there’s a possibility that either Rashford or Martial may take the striker role.
Hojlund might make his debut coming off the bench. He’s shown excellent form for Denmark during the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
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While he hasn’t maintained the same level of performance consistently at the club level, there’s optimism that, under Ten Hag’s guidance, his skills will develop further.
He could have an important role to play in the weekend match.
