Rasmus Hojlund is grateful towards Napoli for reviving his career following a loan move from Manchester United at the beginning of the season.
It’s a huge week for Rasmus Hojlund on the international stage, with Denmark playing for a place in the next World Cup against North Macedonia on Thursday.
A win over North Macedonia won’t be enough to secure Denmark a place at the 2026 World Cup, though. The winner of that match will take on Czechia or the Republic of Ireland in a play-off final to secure qualification.
Hojlund has shown improved form since leaving Manchester United on loan, but it remains to be seen if Napoli will take up the option to sign the 23-year-old striker at the end of the season.
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Benjamin Sesko shots on target vs Burnley compared to Rasmus Hojlund's shots on target in 2024/25 season
Benjamin Sesko shots on target vs Burnley compared to Rasmus Hojlund’s shots on target in 2024/25 season
Rasmus Hojlund warning up against Lecce
Photo by Elianton/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
Rasmus Hojlund says he’s changed since leaving Man Utd on loan
Having scored 14 goals across all competitions, which is more than he managed throughout the 2024/25 season for United despite playing more matches, Hojlund’s return to Italy has done his reputation no harm.
There has been very little talk of Hojlund returning to Old Trafford, but Napoli also have a £38 million buy-back clause, which is dependent on them qualifying for the Champions League.
Ahead of Denmark’s crucial World Cup qualifiers, Hojlund has been interviewed by Danish broadcaster TV2, speaking about his time at Napoli and what has changed since his temporary Old Trafford exit.
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“In Naples I rediscovered the joy of playing football,” Hojlund said, as quoted by Sky Sport Italia.
“It seemed like everything was over, they said so in Denmark too, but I never gave up and I always believed it. You can’t always be at your best. I know very well that I still have to work and improve a lot.
“I’m very self-critical about this. Now in Denmark they say I’m back at the centre of the project because I’m working and scoring a lot more.”
Hojlund also spoke about his struggles at United and how he didn’t allow himself to be influenced by the opinions of the media.
“If we look at the last periods at Manchester – he said – I didn’t do well, I’m aware of that, but now many things have changed,” he added.
“Now I’ve grown more. I’ve always worked hard and you can’t judge a striker only if he’s in the final meters and manages to score .
“In football, there are ups and downs; it’s part of the journey, the important thing is to always stay on top of things as I have done without letting myself be influenced by the opinions of the media.”
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Rasmus Hojlund celebrates against Juventus
Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images
Rasmus Hojlund among Serie A top scorers
Hojlund is one of four Serie A players with 10 goals in the Italian top flight this season.
Inter Milan star Lautaro Martinez is topping the charts with 14 as things stand.
However, with Hojlund listed among the top scorers in Italy this season, it may help Napoli convince them to commit to a long-term deal that would take the striker away from United.
Hojlund will be hoping to add to his tally before the end of the season.
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