Wayne Rooney Predicts Goals for Struggling Rasmus Hojlund

Manchester United’s young striker Rasmus Hojlund has endured a difficult season in front of goal, scoring just twice in the Premier League so far. However, club legend Wayne Rooney remains confident that the 22-year-old will rediscover his scoring touch with a bit of luck and better service from his teammates.

Hojlund’s Goal Struggles at Manchester United

Hojlund, who arrived from Atalanta for £72m, impressed in his debut campaign, netting 17 goals in all competitions. However, his second season has been far more challenging, with only two league goals to his name and a goalless run since December 12.

The Danish forward’s lack of goals has been attributed to a mix of low confidence, poor service, and missed opportunities. Rooney, who scored 253 goals for United, believes that once Hojlund breaks his drought, goals will come more freely.

“He needs that bit of luck, but once he gets a break, more goals will follow,” Rooney told BBC Sport after United’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal.

Lack of Confidence Impacting Hojlund’s Performances

Rooney highlighted two key moments against Arsenal that showed Hojlund’s struggles:

1. Blocked shot after great movement – The striker timed his run perfectly, lost his marker, and connected well, but Gabriel’s block denied him a certain goal.
2. Hesitation in front of goal – When the ball broke for him in the box, Declan Rice managed to recover and tackle him. Rooney pointed out that a confident striker would instinctively finish without hesitation.

“If you are scoring goals, you don’t even have to look up. You know where the goal is.”

Rooney’s Advice: Go Back to Basics

Rooney believes Hojlund must simplify his game and focus on positioning inside the penalty box.

• Against Arsenal, there was a moment when Bruno Fernandes’ shot was saved, and instead of continuing his run into the six-yard box, Hojlund hesitated.
• A tap-in opportunity was missed because of indecisiveness—something that happens when a striker is struggling for form.

“Making runs into the penalty box is as easy as it comes. Hojlund needs to have that desire to get in the box.”

Rooney also defended Hojlund by stressing that Manchester United as a team have struggled, limiting his goal-scoring chances.

“Nine times out of ten, forwards rely on their teammates for service. United have not been creating enough chances or putting balls into the box.”

Can Hojlund Turn Things Around?

While criticism mounts, Rooney believes patience is key. If Manchester United can improve their attacking play, the goals will eventually come for Hojlund.

Will Hojlund bounce back and prove his doubters wrong? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!