HOJLUND BREAKS THE DROUGHT

Rasmus Højlund’s goal against Leicester City on Sunday ended a challenging 21-game goal drought, a moment that was celebrated with a determined, straight-faced reaction.

The 22-year-old Danish striker admitted that the goal was a significant milestone, but it’s clear he understands the work that still lies ahead in his development.

Højlund, who is on his second permanent manager at Old Trafford, revealed that adapting to the team’s new system under Ruben Amorim, particularly the 3-4-2-1 formation, has been one of the key factors behind his goal-scoring struggles. “I think obviously I’ve not been on top of my game as I wanted to,” he acknowledged. “We’re still adapting to a new system and some new positions.”

Despite the frustrations of the goal drought, Højlund is starting to find his rhythm in the system, and he’s been growing into it, showing signs of improvement. His goal against Leicester was no fluke; it came from a well-executed move where he collected a pass from Bruno Fernandes, stormed into the box, and finished neatly past Mads Hermansen.

The young striker made it clear that while goals are important, they aren’t everything. "I’m happy, but it’s not all about goals," Højlund said. "I’m obviously very happy to get my goal, and it gives me a lot of confidence." He emphasized that with each game, he’s developing a better understanding of his teammates' qualities and how to play to the team's strengths, which is essential to his progress.

Reflecting on his growth and future, Højlund said, “I’m developing and starting to understand their qualities as well, and that's what the manager wants. He wants us to play to our strengths, and now we’re starting to find each other even better.” Despite the breakthrough, he is determined to keep improving and becoming a better player. "I know I'm not the finished article, but I just want to keep going and keep becoming even better."

At just 22, Højlund is still a young player, and while the pressure at Old Trafford can be overwhelming, his potential is undeniable. His goal against Leicester could prove to be a crucial step in his development, providing both confidence and motivation as he continues to adjust to his role at Manchester United.

Højlund is valued at €60 million by Transfermarkt, and Manchester United will hope his goal marks the start of a more prolific run as they face Nottingham Forest on 1 April after the international break