Inside Hojlund's failings at Man Utd and why it has gone wrong for the striker

Frustration was written across the face of Rasmus Hojlund during Manchester United's clash with Fulham.

Despite United’s 1-0 victory, Hojlund endured another challenging outing as the lone forward, failing to register a shot for the seventh time in 13 Premier League starts this season and managing just one touch in the opposition’s box.

A moment in the 29th minute encapsulated Hojlund’s struggles.

Deep in his half, Amad played a pass around the corner to Hojlund, who, under pressure from Calvin Bassey, miscontrolled the ball, gifting possession to Sasa Lukic.

After several turnovers, Bruno Fernandes found Hojlund in space, but the striker’s heavy first touch allowed Fulham’s Joachim Andersen to intercept.

The Fulham fans’ approval contrasted sharply with Hojlund’s visible frustration, as he tipped his head back and slapped his arms to his sides.

Hojlund’s issues extend beyond isolated mistakes. He has yet to develop the understanding with teammates needed to thrive in Ruben Amorim’s system.

In the 21st minute, a promising move saw Noussair Mazraoui on the overlap, with Hojlund well-positioned for a cutback at the near post. Instead, Mazraoui opted for a lofted cross, which was easily cleared.

This disconnect mirrors an earlier incident against Liverpool when Fernandes became visibly frustrated by Hojlund’s movement, highlighting the inconsistency in their coordination.

Hojlund’s difficulties in physical contests were evident throughout the match.

Early on, he lost possession in a duel, leading to a Fulham chance that forced a save from André Onana.

On another occasion, he appeared disengaged after losing an aerial duel but burst into action when Lisandro Martínez delivered a through ball.

Hojlund found Garnacho, whose cross was blocked, but these moments of promise have been rare.

Hojlund’s limited impact was underlined by his mere 21 touches (the lowest of any starter) and just eight completed passes, none of which entered the final third.

His tally of 33 touches in opposition boxes this Premier League season pales in comparison to Mohamed Salah’s 248, with even United’s top contributor, Amad, recording 113.

Despite flashes of potential, Hojlund’s confidence and effectiveness have waned.

His Premier League stats—12 shots and two goals in 18 games—lag behind expectations, particularly given his £72m transfer fee from Atalanta.

By contrast, his Europa League form (five goals in seven games) highlights a player still finding his feet in England’s top flight.

Ruben Amorim acknowledged Hojlund’s challenges, emphasizing the need for time and proper training to build the necessary connections with teammates.

“Sometimes he’s far when he should be near, and sometimes he’s near when he should make a run,” Amorim said.

Hojlund, who turns 22 next week, is still in the developmental stage of his career.

Comparisons with other strikers are telling. Harry Kane didn’t break through until the season he turned 22, while Amorim helped shape Viktor Gyökeres, who only became a standout at 26.

United face broader challenges beyond Hojlund. Marcus Rashford, also struggling for form, is reportedly being lined up for a loan to Barcelona, though financial hurdles remain.

Christopher Nkunku is on United’s radar as a potential replacement, but no deal is imminent.

In the meantime, United will hope Hojlund’s efforts in training and his adaptation to Amorim’s demands result in a turnaround.

The manager summed it up: “Sometimes you have a bad game, but you have to move on to the next.”

For Hojlund and United, the hope is that the next howl will be one of triumph, not frustration.