Manchester United are currently without Rasmus Hojlund, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury. The Danish striker made an impact in his first pre-season appearance against Arsenal in Los Angeles, scoring a goal before tweaking his hamstring, forcing him off the pitch. His recovery timeline was set at around six weeks, with a return expected after the September international break.
This timeline ruled Hojlund out of the crucial September 1st clash against Liverpool at Old Trafford, but he should be available for selection against Southampton at St. Mary’s Stadium. United began their season on a high with a late winner against Fulham, but they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Brighton last weekend. Alejandro Garnacho had a goal disallowed for offside, but Brighton were deserved winners, exposing United’s defensive frailties.
United’s defense fell apart in the fifth minute of added time, leaving Joao Pedro unmarked to score the winner. The lack of defensive discipline was glaring, and now, with Liverpool up next, Erik ten Hag may need to rethink his tactical approach. Ten Hag has experimented with a false nine system, deploying Bruno Fernandes in the role against Fulham and Brighton, with Mason Mount operating as the No. 10. However, the system was abandoned at halftime against Brighton, with Joshua Zirkzee replacing Mount and playing through the middle, moving Fernandes back to his natural position.
Despite the tactical shift, United struggled to find the goals needed to overcome Brighton. Goal-scoring was a problem last season, and it seems to have carried over into the new campaign. Under Ten Hag, United have not been a prolific scoring team, and Hojlund’s absence is being felt keenly. Zirkzee, who may start against Liverpool, offers a different profile from Hojlund. The Dutchman prefers to drop deep and facilitate build-up play in a ‘9.5 role,’ while Hojlund is more direct, using his pace and power to stretch defenses.
Hojlund’s first season in England was promising, with 16 goals, showcasing his potential despite missing several chances. He remains a raw talent with room for improvement, particularly in his finishing, but his presence in the lineup offers United a focal point they currently lack. His ability to lead the line would have been invaluable against both Fulham and Brighton, games where United struggled to impose themselves.
The saying “you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone” rings true for United with Hojlund’s absence. While he is not yet the finished article, his qualities make United a more formidable team, and his return could be pivotal in turning around their early-season struggles. Fans and the club alike will be eagerly awaiting his comeback after the international break, hoping he can hit the ground running and provide the goal-scoring boost United desperately need.
With only the Liverpool game left to navigate without Hojlund, United will be counting down the days until their new striker can take the field again, knowing that his presence could make all the difference as they look to regain momentum in the Premier League.