Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund appears set to be left out of today’s squad for the Premier League opener against Arsenal amid swirling speculation over his future.
The 22-year-old Dane could see his minutes limited this season after United signed RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, adding extra competition up front.
Limited Opportunities After Tough Season
Hojlund endured a challenging 2024-25 campaign, scoring just four goals in 32 appearances.
Despite that, he reportedly wants to stay and prove himself at Old Trafford.
However, recent reports suggest he may not even make the matchday squad for the trip to the Emirates, continuing a worrying trend that began when he didn’t play a single minute in United’s final pre-season friendly against Fiorentina last weekend.
Manager Stays Non-Committal
Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim was cautious when asked about Hojlund’s future at Friday’s press conference.
“He’s one more option, we will see. We are focused on this game and Rasmus is still our player,” he said, offering little clarity on whether the striker will feature this season.
Hojlund Remains Focused
The young forward has remained upbeat despite transfer links to AC Milan, Juventus, RB Leipzig, and Premier League clubs like Fulham and Newcastle.
During United’s pre-season tour of the U.S., he told reporters:
“The most important thing for me is just to keep working hard and stay focused, and then obviously we’ll see what happens.
My plan is very clear: I want to stay and fight for my spot. I’m only 22. Not every striker scores 100 goals at my age.
I’m developing and getting better in the basics. Competition sharpens me, and I’m ready for whatever comes.”
United’s Strengthened Attack
Manchester United’s frontline looks significantly bolstered this season, with Sesko joining new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbuemo.
How Amorim will balance these options, alongside Mason Mount, Joshua Zirkee, and Amad Diallo, remains to be seen as he finalizes the starting XI for a challenging opener.
Arsenal Also Bolstered for the Clash
The Gunners, meanwhile, have strengthened their squad with multiple new signings, including Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Christian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Christian Norgaard.
All eyes will likely be on Gyokeres, who faces the club that once competed with Arsenal for his signature, adding another intriguing subplot to this high-profile fixture.