'The Ball Into The No.9 Never Came...': Peter Schmeichel Opines Man United System Failed Rasmus Hojlund

Last Updated:September 19, 2025, 14:02 IST

Schmeichel revealed that he was of the opinion that Hojlund could prove to be a lethal striker, but the United system did not do him and help.

Rasmus Hojlund. (X)

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel reflected on compatriot Rasmus Hojlund’s trying time at the Mancunian club before his loan move to Italian champions Napoli.

Hojlund, who joined United from Atalanta in 2023, returned to Serie A with Napoli after not being able to meet the lofty expectations at the once-fabled English club.

Schmeichel revealed that he was of the opinion that Hojlund could prove to be a lethal striker, but the United system did not do him and help.

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“The one that really pains me is Hojlund. I honestly believe he could have been a 25-goal-a-season striker for Manchester United," the former keeper said.

“The problem wasn’t him – it was the way the team played. The system didn’t suit him," he asserted.

Schmeichel cited the lack of supply to the striker as a crucial reason for his underwhelming performances for the Red Devils, but acknowledged the Dane’s efforts despite the lack of success.

“When players like Garnacho or Rashford got the ball, they looked only to shoot. The ball into the No.9 never came, even though Rasmus was making really good runs," the Dane explained.

“The fans saw it. They loved him because he fought, he ran, he gave everything, and he had to play every game because there were no other strikers," he reflected.

“Of course, when you don’t score as a striker, people point to it again and again. But what more could he do without service?"

The 22-year-old Hojlund got life at Napoli off to a good start with a goal in the champions’ 3-1 win over Fiorentina, but the Italian giants were no match for Manchester City in their UEFA Champions League 2025/26 opener after going down to ten-men on Friday.

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