Rasmus Hojlund Thrilled to Break 21-Game Goal Drought

Rasmus Hojlund has acknowledged that he has not been performing at his peak level, even as he broke a three-month goal drought during Manchester United’s 3-0 victory against Leicester City.

The 22-year-old forward has experienced several frustrating spells since his arrival at Old Trafford from Atalanta in August 2023, leading to considerable scrutiny of his £72 million transfer fee.

The Denmark international marked the end of his 21-match goal drought by scoring in the 28th minute, finishing a move with a precise right-footed shot that found the net across Leicester’s goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, following a well-placed pass from Bruno Fernandes.

Fellow teammate Alejandro Garnacho also broke his scoring draught, while Fernandes contributed a third goal as United extended their unbeaten streak in the Premier League to four matches.

Hojlund expressed his relief at finally returning to the scoresheet for the first time since mid-December, attributing his struggles to more than just the absence of goals.

“I’m really pleased to have scored and it certainly boosts my confidence,” he remarked.

“However, it’s not just about finding the net. I recognise that I haven’t quite hit the form I aspire to, and we’re still adjusting to a new system and some different roles.”

“That said, I feel I’ve been improving lately and I’m starting to find my rhythm.”

Hojlund noted that he is developing a stronger rapport with his teammates as Ruben Amorim, who took over as manager from Erik ten Hag in November, begins to implement his tactical vision.

“(Amorim) wants me to stretch the pitch, which is quite clear, and I’m instructed to exploit the channels, keeping the centre-backs occupied,” he explained.

“That’s what I aim to do. I believe I possess a good amount of speed, and that’s my role here.”

Despite the win against relegation-threatened Leicester, which saw United rise from 15th to 13th in the Premier League standings, it does little to remedy what has been a disappointing season overall.

Nonetheless, the victory maintains their unbeaten league streak and helps build on the momentum following their impressive 4-1 win over Real Sociedad, which secured their place in the Europa League quarter-finals.