Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag provides big update on Rasmus Hojlund ahead of Arsenal clash
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Rasmus Hojlund is set to make his debut against Arsenal this weekend.
Hojlund, 20, arrived at Old Trafford from Serie A side Atalanta earlier this summer in a £72 million deal. However, the Danish striker has not yet debuted for the Red Devils due to a back injury.
Ten Hag has good news for fans, though, providing a positive update on Hojlund's availability for his side's clash with Arsenal on Sunday (September 3). He said (via Manchester Evening News):
"Yes (he's available). So he had a good training week; so, tomorrow, we have final training, but he's doing well. He's responded well. So he will be available for Sunday's game."
The exciting young forward has watched on as his new Manchester United teammates have been uninspiring this season. They nicked a 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers but suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur.
Ten Hag's men bounced back with a 3-2 comeback win against Nottingham Forest last time out. Hojlund's recovery comes at a vital time for the Red Devils as they face last season's runners-up Arsenal.
Manchester United travel to the Emirates to face Mikel Arteta's men, who are yet to lose this campaign. The Gunners drew 2-2 with Fulham last weekend, though.
Hojlund will be eager to kickstart his United career with an impressive showing against Arsenal. He's tasked with becoming the focal point of Ten Hag's attack as he was for Atalanta last season. He bagged 10 goals and four assists in 34 games across competitions.
However, many will be expecting the Denmark international to put up better numbers given his price tag. Ten Hag will be glad to finally have his new centre-forward to call upon.
Manchester United's new star Hojlund dreamt of playing for Red Devils
Hojlund has always dreamt of playing for Manchester United, as he was a fan of the 13-time Premier League champions growing up. There was competition for his signature this summer, as Paris Saint-Germain were also interested.
L'Equipe reported that the Dane was flattered by interest from PSG but always desired a move to Old Trafford. He alluded to that in his interview when being unveiled as a new Red Devils, telling the club's website:
“Playing for Man United has always been my dream. So, this is two very important components which make me take this decision to come here. So, (I'm) just looking forward to start working and getting on the pitch.”
The young striker will now look to follow in the footsteps of many United heroes who made the striker's role their own. However, he appears to have the confidence required to match the likes of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Wayne Rooney.