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Fabio Capello praises Rasmus Hojlund’s progress at Napoli after tough spell at Manchester United

Originally posted on HITC | By Adnan Riaz | Last updated Oct 8, 2025 3:34 PM ET

Fabio Capello has noticed a change in Rasmus Hojlund since the forward left Manchester United for a loan spell at Napoli.

Hojlund has caught the eye since returning to Italy, fitting in well with Antonio Conte’s Napoli squad early in the 2025-26 Serie A season.

The 22-year-old Dane has scored four goals in six appearances across all competitions this season, taking charge of Napoli’s attack.

With Romelu Lukaku sidelined by a pre-season injury in August, Hojlund quickly became an important part of Conte’s plans.

This move has given him an opportunity to reset his career and find form again after two difficult seasons at Old Trafford.

What Fabio Capello has noticed about Rasmus Hojlund since his move to Napoli

Rasmus Hojlund had hoped to stay at Old Trafford and took part in Manchester United’s pre-season tour under manager Ruben Amorim.

But after the club brought in Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko, Hojlund found himself out of the plans for the new season.

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The Danish forward joined Napoli on loan for the 2025/26 campaign, with an obligation to buy included if certain conditions are met.

Writing in his column for La Gazzetta dello Sport, Capello said he feels Hojlund has started to come into his own during his time with Napoli.

“Playing in Naples puts you under more pressure than at Atalanta, but the Dane seems to have matured thanks to his Premier League experience, which helped him realise his true value,” Capello said.

Capello also pointed out that Hojlund appears motivated by a need to prove himself again after being let go by United. He added: “I’ve also noticed in him a certain desire for redemption after his time at Manchester United.”

Fabio Capello says Rasmus Hojlund can play a key role in helping Scott McTominay

Hojlund’s arrival in Naples has also seen him link back up with former United teammate Scott McTominay, who joined the Italian club in 2024.

During his first season under Antonio Conte, the Scottish midfielder quickly became a reliable figure for Napoli, putting together a string of strong performances.

Capello spoke about both players, saying: “It’s a particularly clever move because in other areas of the pitch, there are quality players who are having less of an impact than last year, such as McTominay.

“Indeed, Conte’s team hasn’t scored a lot so far, but they are still very organised and Hojlund is a crucial addition because he already knows Italian football and won’t struggle to settle in.”

The former United midfielder has seen his influence wane this season following Napoli’s acquisition of Kevin De Bruyne over the summer. The ex-Man City star has added another layer of quality to Conte’s midfield options.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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