While Manchester United’s poor start to the season is far from over, there was a ray of hope as they battled back from a dubious goal down against Brentford yesterday to win their first game in a month.

Rasmus Hojlund is delighted with United’s attacking synergy. | Manchester United

Rasmus Hojlund is one player who has faced a lot of criticism in recent weeks. His season began later than expected due to an injury sustained against Arsenal during United’s USA tour opener this summer, just after he put the Red Devils ahead with a well-taken goal.

Before making his Europa League debut against FC Porto, he appeared as a substitute against Crystal Palace, FC Twente, and Tottenham Hotspur in his eagerly anticipated return from injury.

It only took him 20 minutes to get off the mark in that game, but his overall performance was rusty, which is understandable given that he missed all but a few minutes of pre-season.

Hojlund drew a blank against Aston Villa and appeared off the pace, notably with his hold-up play and back to goal.

It may reflect United fans’ overall dissatisfaction with the team, as social media was already rife with complaints that their team lacked a “proper striker”.

MU against Brentford on April 8, 2024/2025

During the international break, Hojlund told reporters, “I might be ready to play 90 minutes, but if I also use my brain a little bit, I don’t think 90 minutes against Spain on Saturday is a good idea.”

He also missed a day of training as his patient’s rehabilitation progressed.

However, despite being limited to 74 minutes against Brentford yesterday, spectators at Old Trafford finally saw what the Dane is capable of in a fantastic display.

There were moans early on when he was dispossessed with his back to the goal, but his performance after that was faultless.

An study of his performance was published here yesterday, and it is supported by superb statistics that earned him a respectable 7.5 rating on sofascore.com.

What was especially pleasing was the finesse he demonstrated on many occasions, including subtle skill moves that allowed him to squirm free of his marker and a magnificent chip for the winning goal that had fans and analysts salivating.

One of Hojlund’s major concerns at United has been a lack of opportunities, and yesterday was no exception. His predicted goals were only 0.42, which is consistent with his season average. That is less than wingers Marcus Rashford (0.66) and Alejandro Garnacho (2.77).

Rasmus Hojlund overcomes early challenges to shine in Brentford’s 2-1 victory.

Compare the figure to Harry Kane’s season xG at Bayern Munich (5.51) or Erling Haaland’s at Manchester City (6.5).

It should be noted that all four of United’s wingers, including Amad and Antony, like to score first before considering themselves as providers for their center striker.

Rasmus Hojlund delivers a message after scoring for Manchester United against Brentford; Anthony Martial answers.

Although it might be claimed that Hojlund needs to improve his run timing and placement to make himself more visible, given the existing system and personnel around him, he will never be the recipient of endless crosses.

That being said, yesterday shown that once he returns to full fitness and the team surrounding him regains confidence, United could have a legitimate striker on their hands. And at only 21 years old, there may be no limit to how “proper” he can become.

Manchester United hit back against Brentford to ease strain on Ten Hag.