Man Utd star Hojlund compared to playboy legend

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 15 Sept 2023 08:02 BST
• 2 min read

Manchester United have been told that new signing Rasmus Hojlund is like former Arsenal star Nicklas Bendtner.

United signed Hojlund for €75 million from Atalanta in the summer in a deal considered a gamble given the relatively few number of first-team matches the striker has played.

Erik ten Hag’s side, though, were desperate for a centre-forward and were pressed into paying big money for a youngster who had shown much promise during his single season in Serie A, where he scored nine goals in 32 games.

SANCHO: Barcelona and Real Madrid among top transfer options

Now the 20-year-old’s former youth team coach has spoken out the promise that he holds – and also comparisons to former Arsenal striker Bendtner.

“A good comparison can be made to the other rising superstar we had in Nicklas Bendtner,” Hojlund’s former youth coach Christian Mouroux told The Sun.

“They are both number nines, both very physical and have this twinkle in the eye. They are humorous, outgoing and cheeky.”

Transfer News Today: Arsenal strike CLUB-RECORD deal, Man Utd EXILE Sancho, TWO want Liverpool star

Hojlund the next Bendtner?

Man Utd might have been shaken by that comparison. Bendtner was known as something of a playboy star who failed to live up to his potential during his time in England, where he played with Arsenal from 2005-14. Hojlund, though, is different in this regard.

“Bendtner was probably a more naturally gifted footballer but that perhaps made him take things more lightly and get influenced by everything that affects you from the outside when you become a superstar,” Mouroux said.

“Rasmus is completely different. Although I’m sure he will probably buy a bigger car and has a nice watch, it will not blow out of proportion.

“He has the right mentality for it. He is so disciplined. He is very aware of what hard work does for you and it’s hard work that has brought him to where he is today.”

Hojlund made his Man Utd debut against Arsenal prior to the international break but could make his first start on Saturday against Brighton.