05 August 2023 , 15:18
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Erik ten Hag is expecting Rasmus Hojlund to provide his team with some much needed physicality in attack after his transfer to Manchester United was confirmed on Saturday afternoon.
Hojlund, 20, was identified as United's primary target earlier this summer and was given permission to discuss a move to Old Trafford after a deal which could reach £72million was agreed with Atalanta at the start of the week.
Ten Hag had made signing a new No.9 a priority ahead of the transfer window - and the Dutchman has highlighted some of the qualities that the Denmark international will bring once he is fit to feature in United's starting XI.
Speaking to media after Hojlund was unveiled before Saturday's 3-1 win over RC Lens, Ten Hag said of his new striker: “He is a real frontman. Very direct to the goal, very good presser, a physical presence. I think in the balance of this squad, we needed that, alongside [Marcus] Rashford, another player who is direct and can score a goal. That is all in his mind: he wants to score goals.
“I think he has huge potential. And now it's up to him first, to explore that and we will support him, all the coaches, the team, the team was waiting for a type like him. They will integrate him in the dressing room and in the pitch, they will help him.
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“Finally, the player has to prove it. That is the character we need; we need hungry players and he is a player who is so determined to score goals, winning games and winning trophies.”
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Rasmus Hojlund was officially unveiled as a Manchester United player on Saturday (Manchester United via Getty Imag)Hojlund, who was described by United football director John Murtough as a "truly exceptional talent", expressed his delight after completing a dream move to his boyhood club.
Speaking to ManUtd.com, Hojlund said: “It is no secret that I have been a fan of this great club since I was a small boy, and I dreamed of walking out at Old Trafford as a Manchester United player.
“I am incredibly excited by this opportunity to turn that dream into a reality, and I am determined to repay the faith that the club has shown in me. It is still early in my career, but I know that I am ready to make this step up and play with this group of world-class players.
“Once I had spoken to the manager, I knew that this environment would be perfect for my development. I am relishing the opportunity to work with one of the best coaches in the world. Under his guidance and support, I know that I am capable of achieving great things together with my new team-mates at this special club.”
Hojlund is unlikely to make his debut in next weekend's Premier League opener against Wolves, with United confirming that the striker had picked up a "small issue" during pre-season with Atalanta.