Erik ten Hag has offered insight into what the newly acquired Rasmus Hojlund will contribute to his Manchester United squad in the upcoming months, addressing a profile that the team has lacked for a significant period.
The 20-year-old Danish forward, who is a lifelong Manchester United supporter, was formally introduced to the fans at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon, just prior to their pre-season encounter against Lens from Ligue 1.
Hojlund, observing from the stands, witnessed a 3-1 victory secured by goals from Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Casemiro.
Following the conclusion of the match, an elated Ten Hag discussed various topics, shedding light on the eagerly anticipated addition of Rasmus Hojlund to the team.
Speaking toMUTV, the Dutch manager said: “He is really a front man, very direct to the goal. A very good presser, a physical presence and I think in the balance of this squad we needed that.
“Alongside Rashford, [he is] another player who is direct and can score goals and that is all in his mind – he wants to score goals.”
You can watch the full segment at3:17below.
Ten Hag went on to hail Hojlund’s “huge potential” but asked the former Copenhagen forward to prove his worth.
“I think he has such a huge potential and now it is up first to him to explore that and we will support him – all the coaches,” he added.
“I’m sure the whole team was waiting for a type like him and they will integrate and in the dressing room or on the pitch they will help him.
“But as I said, finally the player – he has to prove it.”
Then, after explaining how Hojlung can get the best out of himself with a strong desire to succeed, Ten Hag added: “That is the characters we need: we need hungry players.
“He is a player who is so determined to score goals and win games and win trophies.”
Ten Hag also wants the player to use his direct approach and link-up play. “That is our idea,” he said. “But now we have to transfer that to the pitch.”
Hojlund, who has scored 27 goals in 87 club appearances, opened up about his ‘dream’ move in an interview with United’sofficial website.
“It is no secret that I have been a fan of this great club since I was a small boy, and I dreamed of walking out at Old Trafford as a Manchester United player,” he 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.”
Let’s get started 👹🔥🔥So happy to be part of the biggest club in the world! I want to say a huge thank you for the warm welcome at Old Trafford 🥰 pic.twitter.com/SHTIwvsCf5
— Rasmus Højlund (@RasmusHojlund10) August 5, 2023
The 20-year-old added: “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 team-mates at this special club.”
Thoughts on the arrival of Hojlund?