Strikers must be more complete now - Man United new boy Hojlund aims to add new dimensions

Rasmus Hojlund wants to improve his all-round game to fit the modern role of a striker. (Photo Credit: Man Utd/X)

FOOTBALL Strikers must be more complete now - Man United new boy Hojlund aims to add new dimensions

Strikers must be more complete now - Man United new boy Hojlund aims to add new dimensions

Izuchukwu Akawor • 03:21 - 27.01.2024

Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund speaks on the significant evolution of the centre-forward role in the last decade or more.

Manchester United’s new signing Rasmus Hojlund has acknowledged that the demands on strikers in the modern game have evolved and he is working hard to become a more well-rounded player since joining the club.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Hojlund stated this ahead of his debut for the club in the Emirates FA Cup against Newport on Sunday. 

Man United’s Hojlund on Strikers

In an interview with Manchester United’s magazine, Inside United, the 20-year-old was asked about the attributes needed from a striker in the game now.

According to a report on the club website, the Dane noted that the role of the striker has now gone beyond just staying alert, running in behind and being focused on putting the ball behind the goalkeeper.

Rasmus Hojlund during his unveiling at Old Trafford.
Rasmus Hojlund during his unveiling at Old Trafford. (Photo Credit: brFootball)

"The criteria for a striker is more demanding now than it was probably 10 or 15 years ago and, yeah, you need to be even more complete as a striker," stated the Danish striker. 

"I try to be that every day, in every sort of aspect, all of those things you just mentioned [pressing, work rate, hold-up play, physical strength] are some of them."

Rasmus Hojlund celebrates his first Premier League goal for Manchester United.
Rasmus Hojlund celebrates his first Premier League goal for Manchester United. (Photo Credit: Premier League.)

Speaking further, the former Atalanta youngster added that these attributes have become important to him, also considering the demands of his current boss, Erik Ten Hag. 

"It's very important, especially the way the game is developing as well,” he added. 

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"Pressing is also a big part of it, especially with this manager [ Ten Hag]. He wants to put pressure on the other team and the other opponents. So, for me to do the whole process, it's very important for the team.

"I try to work especially to be even better every day. I think that is key for a striker if you want to score goals."

Manchester United forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford | Imago

The teenage talent has looked to develop new facets to his game, on top of his renowned pace and finishing skills. Hojlund knows that to reach the elite level in 2024, versatility and all-around ability are now prerequisites for any top striker.

He has scored seven goals this season for Manchester United across competitions, with an assist to his name.

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