Rasmus Højlund can't stop scoring. The Manchester United forward is experiencing his big breakthrough at Old Trafford. Comparisons with some club icons of The Red Devils are already being made. "He could also become a star and score 25 or 30 goals in a season."
Andreas Højlund, a recent acquisition who had to bide his time before making a mark in the Premier League, is now being heralded as a potential successor to some of football's greatest names.
The analogy of the ketchup bottle, famously used by Ruud van Nistelrooij to describe the sudden and prolific nature of goal-scoring once the initial barrier is broken, aptly fits Højlund's current streak. After enduring a goalless start to his tenure in the Premier League, the Danish forward has flipped the script, finding the net in every league match he has played in since breaking his duck.
This remarkable run has not gone unnoticed, with Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel, himself a towering figure in the club's history, recognizing Højlund's burgeoning talent. Schmeichel pointed out that in the storied history of Manchester United, only a select few Van Nistelrooij, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Eric Cantona have managed to score in at least six consecutive Premier League games. This places Højlund in elite company, especially considering his young age of 21.
Schmeichel's endorsement extends beyond mere goal-scoring statistics. He suggests that Højlund's potential is not just in his ability to score but in his overall play and the promise he shows to reach the heights of scoring 25 or 30 goals in a single season. This level of production would not only make Højlund a star at Manchester United but also place him among the pantheon of greats who have donned the red jersey.
The former Danish goalkeeper also highlighted the importance of team dynamics in unlocking Højlund's full potential. As Schmeichel observed, Højlund's teammates are still adapting to his style of play. This adjustment period is natural for any new addition to a squad, especially one as young and with as much potential as Højlund. Despite a missed opportunity in the game against Luton Town, Højlund's ability to create chances and capitalize on them with two goals demonstrates his significant contribution to the team.
Schmeichel's insights suggest that as the understanding between Højlund and his teammates deepens, his impact on the field could become even more profound. With his strength, skill at creating opportunities, and emerging goal-scoring prowess, Højlund is quickly becoming a crucial figure for Manchester United, embodying the hopeful resurgence of a club always in search of its next legend.