For Rasmus Hojlund, the past year has been a whirlwind of highs and lows. The £72 million striker, whose move from Atalanta to Manchester United in 2023 was met with great anticipation, has faced relentless scrutiny from fans, former club legends, and the media. As he navigates the pressures of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world, Hojlund recently opened up about his struggles and revealed a unique solution to cope with the negativity: adopting a dog with his girlfriend.
Following his move to Old Trafford, Hojlund was quick to make an impact, scoring in his debut for the Red Devils. However, as the season progressed, he encountered a frustrating spell in front of goal. The expectations were high, and the pressure mounted as the criticism from various quarters intensified. Hojlund admitted that this period had been frustrating and weighed heavily on him.
“I would worry more if it was the other way around and it didn’t work out for me,” Hojlund told TipsBladet. There’s not much else to say other than that it has of course been a period where I would have liked to have done better.” The Danish striker’s desire to perform at his best was evident, and his recent breakthrough in United’s 3-0 victory over Leicester City provided a much-needed boost.
The match against Leicester City was a turning point for Hojlund. Scoring in a convincing win not only helped ease the pressure but also reignited the belief that he can deliver on the promise that led to his expensive transfer. This breakthrough moment came just before Hojlund headed off on international duty with Denmark, where he is set to face Portugal in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.
Reflecting on his journey, Hojlund acknowledged the challenges of adapting to a new club and dealing with the inevitable scrutiny. “It has been frustrating,” he admitted. “That’s probably the right word to use. It has of course affected me a lot in terms of wanting to get on the scoreboard.
To cope with the stress and negativity, Hojlund has decided to adopt a dog with his girlfriend. I don’t spend that much time on social media,” he explained. I post occasionally, but otherwise I keep it away and spend my time with my girlfriend now, and my family—and I’m about to get a dog.” The decision to bring a furry companion into his life is not just about relaxation; it’s a strategic move to block out the noise and focus on what truly matters—his performance on the pitch.
Dogs are known for their ability to provide emotional support and companionship, qualities that Hojlund clearly values. By immersing himself in the care and companionship of a pet, he hopes to create a sanctuary away from the pressures of professional football. This simple yet profound step reflects his determination to maintain mental clarity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Hojlund’s journey with Manchester United is far from over. Following his international commitments, he will return to action with United in a Premier League encounter against Nottingham Forest on April 1. The upcoming match presents an opportunity for Hojlund to build on his recent success and solidify his place in the team. Manager Erik ten Hag will be hoping that Hojlund can continue to contribute to the team’s goalscoring efforts, providing the spark needed to push United forward.
Hojlund’s story is a microcosm of the challenges faced by many young talents in the modern football era. The pressure to perform, coupled with the scrutiny from fans and media, can be overwhelming. By choosing to focus on his personal well-being and finding solace in a pet, Hojlund demonstrates a pragmatic approach to managing the demands of professional football.
