The latest Manchester United news as the Danish striker returned to Serie A this summer after a brief spell with Atalanta in 2022
Rasmus Hojlund
Rasmus Hojlund during his debut for Napoli in Serie A(Image: Getty Images)
Rasmus Hojlund didn't take long to make an impression on Napoli supporters during his Serie A return, following a loan move from Manchester United.
The Danish striker was named in Napoli's starting XI as they beat Fiorentina 3-1. Former Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne scored the opener from the spot, before Hojlund doubled Napoli's lead past David De Gea.
"I'm very happy with the goal," Hojlund told Sky Sports Italy after the game. "Today we won an important match, and I'm really glad I scored and to be part of this incredible team."
Hojlund impressed the Italian press, and the Manchester Evening News has taken a closer look at what's been said about the 22-year-old.
Newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport wrote: "Antonio Conte immediately introduced Hojlund, joining debutants Milinkovic-Savic (Meret was sidelined by fatigue) and Beukema, who replaced the injured Rrahmani. The Dane's qualities were immediately evident: ball protection, attacking in depth, and constant movement to create space.
"Fiorentina struggled to find their feet, and the Azzurri midfield was a whirlwind that sent the Viola's pressure spiralling out of control: in the 14th minute, Dodo mishandled a control, Spinazzola took on the role of finisher and found a passage for Hojlund, who showed off his skills as a model centre-forward: running in depth, shielding the ball, and composure in front of goal: 2-0 Napoli.
"Earlier, Napoli had come close to scoring again through De Bruyne, after a fine exchange in the box with Hojlund: but a superb De Gea kept Fiorentina alive."
Meanwhile, Corriere dello Sport added:"Pep Guardiola has been warned. This Napoli is not afraid of anyone. The star of the transfer window is, of course, Hojlund, who already showed last night how he can transform the attack with his speed, resourcefulness, and aggression.
"Conte will be able to explore many different options, perhaps switching from a midfield to a super-offensive trident like the NHL's (Neres, Hojlund, and Lang). It seems absurd to say this after the game in Florence, but this Napoli team still has a lot of room for improvement."
On the other hand, Euro Sport Italy gave Hojlund a seven for his performance. "Excellent work as a striker, he brings the team forward and effectively pushes forward, giving [Marin] Pongracic a headache," it read.
"He's a cool finish in front of De Gea to make it 2-0 after a beautiful move, and makes his debut as a starter."
Hojlund departed United on transfer deadline day, joining Napoli on a season-long loan that includes an obligation to make the move permanent next summer.
The £38million transfer fee will only be triggered if certain conditions are met by the Serie A champions.
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