Rasmus Hojlund’s early form at Napoli was always going to taper off, but the way things have unfolded for him has been rougher than expected.
There were positives to take from how he responded, though. Hojlund came out sharp and scored on his Serie A debut under Conte, showing his willingness to get involved in build-up play and work hard off the ball.
He ended up putting a good run together in front of goal as well, scoring five times in his first eight games – including a Champions League winner against Benfica. But he hasn’t found the net since then, going seven matches without a goal heading into November. And now he’s picked up two more setbacks on top of that.
Rasmus Hojlund’s double blow at Napoli
One thing United would be secure about when it comes to Hojlund’s loan deal is that the option to turn the deal into an obligation to buy will almost certainly be triggered.
Napoli just need to qualify for the Champions League, with Hojlund’s contribution, to become a permanent deal.
The poor start didn’t help matters either. However, his first goal drought coincided with a couple of other developments that make things more complicated.
Lorenzo Lucca wasn’t much involved in the early part of the season as Hojlund made an impact but is now finding some form again.
The club has just drawn 1-1 against Cagliari, where Lucca came off the bench and managed to score for a change, while Hojlund came off the bench and extended his goal drought.
Lukaku had been out due to injury, which gave him time on the pitch, but now that Lukaku is fit again and Lucca is performing well, he could drop down even further in Conte’s pecking order.
Hojlund’s Napoli role highlights what was missing at Man Utd
Even with Hojlund finding his stride after leaving Old Trafford, which doesn’t reflect well on the club, United will be hoping things work out for him.
It’s not just about the need for that £38m option to be exercised next summer; Hojlund is a true supporter who wanted to remain and prove his worth.
His recent run without goals hasn’t kept him out of games. He picked up an assist in his most recent start, staying involved despite not scoring.
That kind of overall play was something he rarely brought to United. Back then, when he wasn’t scoring, he often didn’t add much else.
This was one reason why Amorim moved on from him after Benjamin Sesko arrived and why Sesko has had more patience shown to him even without a high goal tally.
Either way, Hojlund’s progress at Napoli works in United’s favour. For them, he represents a potential £38m boost they’re counting on come next summer.
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