Rasmus Hojlund slammed as ‘pig-headed’ by own manager

Rasmus Hojlund arrived at Manchester United carrying promise, power and the expectation that he could one day lead the line at Old Trafford.

There were nights when that future seemed close.

While Premier League goals initially proved elusive, the Dane came alive under the Champions League lights, scoring five times in six group-stage appearances during his debut season.

Then came his domestic breakthrough.

Goals began to flow and Hojlund became the youngest player in Premier League history to score in six consecutive matches.

But football can turn quickly.

His second season brought struggle rather than another step forward, with just four goals across 32 Premier League appearances as confidence faded and United endured problems of their own.

Italy eventually offered Hojlund an escape and, more importantly, a chance to rebuild.

He rediscovered his scoring touch at Napoli last season, finding the net 16 times before completing a permanent move from United this summer.

Now, after a difficult evening against a familiar former United face, his own manager has delivered a striking assessment.

Rasmus Hojlund slammed by Max Allegri

Hojlund started Napoli’s 1-1 draw with David de Gea’s Fiorentina on Sunday, but it was an evening where very little fell his way.

The 23-year-old lasted 58 minutes, registering just one blocked effort.

He failed to record a shot on target or create a chance, while completing only three of his seven passes.

According to The Sun, Napoli boss Max Allegri told Hojlund off for being “pig-headed” during the match, demanding less stubbornness from his striker.

Allegri’s public assessment was more measured, acknowledging Hojlund’s effort while highlighting his decision-making.

“He put in the effort,” Allegri said, before explaining that the striker became “too stubborn” in certain situations and needed to remain calm.

There was encouragement alongside the criticism, with Allegri insisting Hojlund has already shown his goalscoring ability and “can only improve”.

Hojlund has scored twice this season, but Sunday’s performance was a reminder that his revival in Naples remains a work in progress.