Before Manchester United’s pre-season friendly against Lens, Rasmus Hojlund stepped onto the Old Trafford pitch for the very first time.
The signing of Hojlund from Atalanta has been officially confirmed by United in a deal reportedly valued at £72 million. The 20-year-old has inked a five-year contract with the club.
Despite already securing the acquisitions of Mason Mount and Andre Onana this summer, Erik ten Hag, United’s manager, was determined to secure an elite No. 9 player to fill the void created by Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure.
Rasmus Hojlund emerged as the top-priority target for the Dutch manager, and Manchester United successfully rebuffed competition from Paris Saint-Germain, securing the signature of the Danish international.
He has since been unveiled by the club in front of the Old Trafford crowd, and you can watch the footage below.
HE’S HERE AND HE’S PERFECT!
Rasmus Hojlund ❤️ pic.twitter.com/s0CC8V8kzI
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) August 5, 2023
Old Trafford welcomes Rasmus Hojlund 🇩🇰🇩🇰pic.twitter.com/xcage4a3eY
— BurnHard (@BurnHardUTD) August 5, 2023
Speaking for the first time as a United player, Hojlund said: “I am incredibly excited by this opportunity to turn that dream into a reality, and I am determined to repay the faith that the club has shown in me.
“It is still early in my career, but I know that I am ready to make this step up and play with this group of world-class players.
“Once I had spoken to the manager, I knew that this environment would be perfect for my development; I am relishing the opportunity to work with one of the best coaches in the world. Under his guidance and support I know that I am capable of achieving great things together with my new teammates at this special club.”
United’s football director John Murtough added: “Rasmus is a truly exceptional talent; he possesses technical and physical attributes which rank him amongst the best players in the world for his age group.
“Working under Erik ten Hag and his coaches will provide Rasmus with the perfect development platform; everyone across the club will ensure that he is given the time and all the support required to reach his immense potential.”