Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim said that there is plenty of room for improvement in Rasmus Hojlund's game after the striker scored twice in Thursday's 3-2 success over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.
Hojlund had only managed two goals in all competitions this season heading into the European clash, but he moved onto four courtesy of a brace against the Norwegian league leaders, scoring either side of the half-time break.
The 21-year-old has now netted 20 times in 57 appearances for Man United since his arrival from Atalanta BC in 2023, and Amorim was full of praise for his performance on Thursday, but he also said that the striker "has to improve".
"I'm very happy for him. I think he improved the connection. I think he has to improve more because sometimes he takes too many touches when he holds up the ball," Amorim told reporters.
"It is very important for us because when we are in the low block he is the guy to hold the ball and connect us in transitions. He did that very well and he has that characteristic. He was aggressive in the goals and in the box, he is a quality player. I think he scores the most difficult goals. He has a lot to improve but that is the same for every player. He did a great job today."
Amorim points out whether Hojlund must improve after brace vs. Bodo/Glimt
Hojlund started on the bench for Man United's Premier League clash with Ipswich Town last weekend, but he is expected to be the starting striker under Amorim, at least until the end of the 2024-25 campaign.
Man United are set to move for another forward next summer, with Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres believed to be their leading target, but Hojlund is expected to stay, which could lead to the departure of the struggling Joshua Zirkzee.
The Netherlands international has only scored once for Man United this season and was an unused substitute against Bodo/Glimt.
Juventus and Inter Milan are believed to be keen to bring Zirkzee back to Serie A next year, and it does not appear that there is a long-term future for the Dutchman at Old Trafford due to his struggles this term.
Hojlund claims Amorim's system 'suits him very well'
Hojlund has said that operating as the centre-forward in Amorim's 3-4-3 system 'suits him very well'.
"New system, new ideas and I think we made a step in the right direction today, but obviously it's going to take some time but it's three points at home, which is good," Hojlund told MUTV after the match with Bodo/Glimt.
"I think the idea is getting a little bit under the skin, but it needs to take time because the new manager has just come in. We work very hard on the training pitch and we've not had any days off. For me personally, the style suits me very well and I'm very happy the new boss is here.
"I think we're still in the process of learning this new system and obviously there are players who have to play in different positions that they've been used to and new roles for different players."
Hojlund is again expected to lead the line when Man United tackle Everton in the Premier League on Sunday, although Amorim will again make changes to his side ahead of the trip to Arsenal next week. body check tags ::
