Rasmus Hojlund endured a difficult night at Stamford Bridge as Manchester United fell to their 18th Premier League defeat of the season.
Manchester United lost 1-0 against Chelsea in the Premier League on Friday night, with Marc Cucurella scoring the only goal from a header at the back post in the second half.
The Red Devils thought they had taken the lead when Harry Maguire volleyed Bruno Fernandes’ cross past Robert Sanchez. However, celebrations were short-lived as VAR ruled that goal out, with Maguire appearing in an offside position before receiving the ball.
United failed to create more dangerous opportunities and managed just one shot on goal throughout the game. It didn’t help that Ruben Amorim’s side were lacking a presence up front, but that has been the story of the season.
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Ruben Amorim backs Rasmus Hojlund after dire Chelsea display
Although it was another night to forget for Hojlund, Amorim has backed his striker to succeed at United.
The 22-year-old was on the receiving end of rollockings from captain Fernandes on more than one occasion during the game, and his team-mates will be hoping that he can provide more on the pitch in the Europa League final on Wednesday night.
Amorim assessed Hojlund’s performance against Chelsea, pointing out that he ‘loses a lot of duels’, but he stressed that he is ‘happy’ with his struggling centre-forward who has managed to score 10 goals in his 49 appearances for the club this season.
The United head coach believes Hojlund is showing signs of improving and claimed better times were ahead for the Dane, even though United have been heavily linked with signing a new striker.
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“I’m happy, of course all the team has to improve, but the way he runs, he fights for every ball, loses a lot of duels, wins some duels, he needs improve the connection” Amorim told reporters after losing 1-0 to Chelsea.
“But he is improving. I’m really happy with him, he just needs to continue working hard and better things will come.”
Hojlund really does have all the basics you need.
Still only 22 years old and not filled out physically. Tall. Strong. Agile.
People are maybe throwing him to the wolves too soon imo. This time next year he could main event Wrestlemania and I honestly believe that.
— Michael (@michaelttfw) May 16, 2025
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No United player has more goals in the league this season than Fernandes.
The Portugal international has found the back of the net eight times in 34 league matches.
Fernandes is closely followed by Amad Diallo in second with seven goals, while Hojlund has only managed four goals throughout the season.
This is one area of the team that needs a drastic improvement next season.