Rasmus Hojlund finds his scoring touch again and sends a clear message following his tough Man Utd spell.
New Spark For Rasmus Hojlund After a Difficult Start
Rasmus Hojlund has not enjoyed the smooth start he hoped for in 2026. Goals were missing, confidence looked shaky, and doubts started to follow him everywhere. For a forward, that kind of phase can be very tough. Because every missed chance becomes a headline and every quiet game becomes a question mark.
Then came the clash with Chelsea in the Champions League. That was a night that changed the tone of his season. It was a tense match that Napoli eventually lost 3-2. But, Hojlund delivered a moment of quality that reminded everyone why he is rated so highly. On 43 minutes, his movement inside the box was sharp and clever. He found space where defenders hesitated and smashed a left-footed shot into the net. His strike left the goalkeeper helpless.
It was not just a goal, but a sign of intent. Beyond the strike, his overall performance stood out as well. He completed his dribbles and carried the ball forward on various occasions. In addition, he fought hard in duels against Chelsea’s defense. Though Napoli failed to progress in the Champions League and finished far down the table. However, Hojlund’s display offered hope. It suggested that his struggles were not permanent. That period was part of a learning curve that every young striker goes through.
The Dane’s Growth Under Conte’s Guidance
Since moving to Italy, Hojlund’s journey has taken an unexpected turn. His exit from **Premier League**‘s Manchester United was not planned in a calm environment. Injuries and squad changes forced quick decisions. Eventually, Napoli became the place where he could restart his football career.
Under Antonio Conte, his game has slowly evolved. The head coach is known for demanding structure, discipline, and mental toughness. With that, Hojlund has had to adapt to those standards too. The manager has openly said that he has improved both Hojlund and Scott McTominay. McTominay is also another former United player who joined the club earlier. Their exits from Old Trafford were difficult, but Italy has offered them clarity and purpose.
🚨🚨🎙️| Antonio Conte on Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay:
“Now all people keep talking about them — remember they were not playing at Manchester United.”
“Ask yourselves some questions — me and my staff must have done something right. There has to be a reason.” 😮🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/i310GdN5PA
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) December 23, 2025
Meanwhile, McTominay’s rise has been dramatic. It was underlined by a Serie A title and a major individual award. Hojlund’s progress has been quieter but meaningful. Conte’s trust has helped him sharpen his movement, timing, and decision-making in the final third.
Against Chelsea, those changes were clearly seen in the way he attacked space and handled pressure. He looked more aggressive in pressing and more willing to demand the ball. The striker looked calmer when chances appeared in front of him. With him in the team, Napoli’s attack looked more balanced.
A Crucial Moment for the Season
As Napoli prepare to host Fiorentina next in Serie A. Now, Hojlund stands at a key point in his season. One goal cannot erase months of doubt, but it can change the story if he gives consistent performances. Strikers live on momentum, and Hojlund now has a chance to turn belief into habit. Napoli’s Champions League exit was painful, but it also reduces pressure and allows the team to focus on domestic challenges.
For Hojlund, every upcoming match carries extra weight. That is not only for Napoli’s ambitions but for his own reputation in European football. He knows that talent alone is never enough at this level. What matters is the ability to respond after setbacks.
If he continues at this pace, his impact could grow steadily. The Chelsea goal may not define his season, but it could become the turning point of a real comeback.
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