Rasmus Hojlund and Diogo Dalot’s fractious relationship took another twist as Real Sociedad held Manchester United in the Europa League. The frustrating 1-1 draw for Ruben Amorim's team was characterised by a heated moment when Hojlund ranted at a dallying Dalot for failing to cross to him on 20 minutes.
It wasn't the first bust-up between the pair, but Amorim was unconcerned, saying: "I'm just imagining Diogo didn't know for sure that Rasmus had the advantage and he felt that he had a lot of time to think of the play. It was a clear position, Rasmus did really well, Dalot did really well, but the decision was not the best. The important thing is to move on and not be fighting." Here, Express Sport looks back on the ups and downs involving the pair, including one spat involving Bruno Fernandes...
'Good all season'
Despite their clashes, Hojlund and Dalot have had some nice things to say about each other.
At the end of last term, Hojlund lauded Dalot's contribution to United's triumphant FA Cup run, saying: "I'm going to put this [Dalot's goal against Wigan in round three] at number three. A very good goal.
"A funny story is that Diogo was actually very sick that day. He was feeling so bad, but he played a very good game, he has been solid all season, a good goal."
'The mentality we want'
Dalot also praised Hojlund for his standout performance off the bench against Brighton last season. Hojlund set up Dalot's opening goal and then made a solo run to make it 2-0 for the visitors.
Speaking to MUTV, Dalot said: "I told him [Hojlund] straight after the goal, that's the mentality we want to see. Whether you're a starter or on the bench, you have to be ready."
Earlier in the season, during a rich vein of scoring form for Hojlund, the Portuguese defender also said: "He has adapted to the team really well, and we have adapted to him really well. Hopefully, he can score a lot more goals."
Fernandes intervenes
However, Hojlund and Dalot's relationship has never been perfect, with the pair previously clashing on the pitch. Hojlund was spotting fuming at Dalot for a lapse that led to a goal in United's chaotic 4-3 defeat to Copenhagen in the Europa League in November 2023, with Fernandes siding with his compatriot, according to the Daily Mail.
When Hojlund reportedly aired his concerns to coaches, it is claimed he was told to address them with Dalot directly. Only then was the matter resolved, with Hojlund making up with both teammates with handshakes
It remains to be seen whether the latest spat between Hojlund and Dalot will strain or strengthen their relationship as United, who host Arsenal on Sunday, look to climb the Premier League table and salvage a trophy in the Europa League.