Why Rasmus Hojlund is becoming Serie A’s most feared striker

Giampaolo Pazzini, a former striker for Atalanta, Fiorentina and Inter, had high praise for Hojlund during a recent appearance on Sportsmediaset.

Pazzini, who earned 25 caps for Italy, believes much of Hojlund’s development this season is down to Napoli manager Antonio Conte.

“At the moment, Hojlund, under Conte, is the strongest striker in Serie A alongside Lautaro. Since he arrived, he has undergone an incredible transformation.

“He has always been a good player, but with great instinct, great power, he was a wild horse. Conte took him, educated him and raised him.”

Pazzini also highlighted how much Hojlund gives to the Napoli side beyond just finding the back of the net.

“Now he’s a fantastic striker because he plays for the team,” Pazzini said. “He doesn’t make a single mistake; he never gets anticipated. He plays short; he plays long; he’s vicious in front of goal.”

It’s remarkable to think that this is the same Rasmus Hojlund who managed just four goals in his only Premier League campaign with Manchester United last season.

Napoli are closing in on Hojlund deal

Rasmus Hojlund made the switch to Napoli late in the transfer window, after initially pushing to stay at Manchester United.

Once Benjamin Sesko’s arrival was confirmed, Hojlund was left out of United’s squad for their final two pre-season matches.

The striker then agreed to a season-long loan with Napoli, which includes a purchase clause that becomes mandatory under certain conditions.

If Napoli qualify for the Champions League, they’ll be required to pay the agreed £38 million fee to make the move permanent.

With Napoli currently sitting second in Serie A, they’re well placed to meet that target.

The club also paid £5.2 million as a loan fee for Hojlund this season, and so far, it looks like money well spent for both player and club.