Rasmus Hojlund Could Make Man Utd Debut Against Arsenal

Manchester United’s new signing, Rasmus Hojlund, could make his debut against Arsenal this Sunday according to Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand. The 20-year-old striker has been named in the Denmark squad for the September internationals, suggesting he is fit to play some part in United’s clash against the Gunners.

The Red Devils signed Hojlund from Atalanta this summer in a deal worth £72million but has been stuck on the sidelines with a back injury. Erik ten Hag recently said he was ‘near’ returning to the pitch.

Hojlund’s Impact on United’s Attack

Though many do not expect him to hit the ground running, the presence of a natural centre-forward will greatly improve United’s attack that has looked toothless without one. They scored just once in their opening games against Wolves and Tottenham, with Marcus Rashford struggling in the central striker role.

The return of Anthony Martial, with Rashford playing in his preferred left-wing position, was a great help in the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest last Saturday, with the England star setting up two goals.

Hojlund’s International Call-Up

It is highly unlikely that Hojlund will start at the Emirates but his international call-up hints he should be okay to come off the bench in needed. And Hjulmand, speaking on Tuesday upon announcing his squad, has suggested that will be the case, claiming he has spoken to Ten Hag about the 20-year-old’s game time.

He said: ‘I have some clear agreements with the club. He [Hojlund] should preferably get some minutes so that we can see that he’s there. He lacks game time, that’s clear, but he’s going to play a role [for Denmark], so we’ll have to see what he can do.’

Next month, Denmark take on San Marino and Finland in crucial Euro 2024 qualifiers. Hojlund is joined in the Danish team by United teammate Christian Eriksen as well as Tottenham’s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg who has been linked with a shock move to Old Trafford.

Conclusion

Other Premier League stars called up include Crystal Palace’s Joachim Andersen and Brentford trio Christian Norgaard, Mathias Jensen and Mikkel Damsgaard. It remains to be seen if Hojlund will make his debut against Arsenal this weekend, but it is clear that he will be an important asset for Manchester United this season.