The horrendous performance of Manchester United star Rasmus Hojlund against West Ham highlights the priority to sign a striker. United suffered another terrible loss in the Premier League as West Ham convincingly defeated them 0-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Hammers have also struggled with form this season, yet their incisiveness played a key role in their emphatic victory. The Red Devils are currently 16th in the Premier League, an embarrassing position for a club of their immense stature.
After Ruben Amorim succeeded Erik ten Hag, the current squad has failed to adjust to the new manager’s tactical demands. However, some things have acted as a recurring problem since before Amorim’s appointment, and the forward position is exactly that.
United signed Hojlund from Atalanta for a huge £72m transfer fee during the summer window of 2023 under Ten Hag. However, the young Denmark international has failed to live up to expectations, facing persistent goal droughts and consistent mediocre performances.
United also signed Joshua Zirkzee to compete with Hojlund this season, but the Dutchman has also failed to impress Amorim. Due to his bigger price tag, Hojlund has faced more scrutiny, particularly with Zirkzee’s season-ending hamstring injury putting more pressure.
According to Fotmob, Hojlund had the fewest touches (31) out of any outfield player to play 90 minutes during the game between West Ham and Man United. Furthermore, the 22-year-old lost the most duels in the game, highlighting his inability to influence the overall play for United.
Hojlund had six shots with only two on target, missing two big chances and failing two dribble attempts. The 22-year-old also got dispossessed three times, while registering only nine successful passes from 15 attempts during the game.
More Manchester United News:
- Scholes criticises poor mentality of Manchester United under Amorim
- Atletico Madrid shift attention towards Manchester United outcast
- Manchester United in active talks with South American star’s entourage; summer move beckons
Hojlund’s inability also incurred the wrath of Luke Shaw during the game as he failed to keep hold of the ball. The 22-year-old has made 49 appearances in all competitions for United, scoring only 10 goals and providing four assists.