Manchester United are reportedly growing frustrated with £72million striker Rasmus Hojlund amid his ongoing goal drought, which is contributing to the club's struggles. Hojlund inherited the No. 9 shirt in the summer after scoring 16 times in his debut season at United but has failed to find the back of the net in his last 16 appearances in all competitions.
According to the Manchester Evening News, his invisible performance in the 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur eight days ago drew particular criticism from coaches.
During Saturday's match against Everton, Hojlund was substituted for 17-year-old Chido Obi, who was making only his second appearance for the club, as the visitors trailed 2-0.
The decision was met with cheers from the away end, which some fans suggest was as much a response to Hojlund's removal as it was to Obi's introduction.
United managed to score twice within 10 minutes of the 22-year-old being taken off, which strengthened the belief that his current form and confidence are detrimental to the side.
The fan reaction contrasts sharply with the boos that greeted Hojlund's substitution during his full debut against Brighton and Hove Albion in September 2023.
Despite the growing concerns, the report adds that United coaching staff continue to support Hojlund during training sessions in a bid to unlock his potential.
Head coach Ruben Amorim notably substituted Hojlund after he lost an aerial duel during last month's 3-1 comeback win against Southampton.
The under-pressure Portuguese tactician has not hidden his frustration with the player - and others - during matches through his animated demeanour.
Despite being given the number nine shirt at the start of the season, Hojlund has only managed to score seven goals, with just two of them coming in the Premier League.
He has failed to score in 27 of the 33 matches he has played in this season - and he isn't the only Red Devils player who has lacked bite.
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United secured Hojlund's services for a hefty £64million, potentially rising to £72m, from Atalanta in July 2023, despite initially stating they wouldn't shell out more than £60m for the Denmark international.
Prior to the transfer, Hojlund switched to the SEG International agency, which also represents former United boss Erik ten Hag.
Despite a decent first season, Hojlund's lacklustre performances and United's current goal difference of -7 suggest a move for a more prolific striker come summer is on the cards.
Since Amorim took the reins in November, Hojlund has only managed to play the full 90 minutes five times, having been substituted on ten occasions.
This article was first published on the Manchester Evening News