Manchester United have been advised to bring Rasmus Hojlund back to Old Trafford immediately, following his impressive loan spell at Napoli. Former Red Devils striker Teddy Sheringham has publicly urged the club to recall the Danish forward before the transfer window closes, highlighting his excellent performances in Serie A.
Sheringham's Strong Case for Hojlund's Return
Speaking to MrQ, Sheringham emphasised how quickly circumstances can change at football clubs, particularly with new management in place. "Yes, I do believe United should consider recalling Hojlund," stated the former England international. "Things change very quickly at football clubs, especially when there's different people in charge."
The striker pointed specifically to Michael Carrick's current tenure as manager, suggesting the new boss might have a different perspective on the player's potential. "Who knows what relationship Michael Carrick has with players like Rasmus Højlund? He might have a way of getting the best out of him," Sheringham added.
Assessing Hojlund's Current Form and Mindset
Sheringham argued that Hojlund's fundamental quality remains unquestioned, given his initial signing by Manchester United. "I don't care what's gone on before, he's obviously a top footballer, otherwise he wouldn't have got to Manchester United in the first place," he remarked.
The former striker believes the club needs to evaluate Hojlund's current mentality and desire. "We need to find out if he has still got the fire in his belly to play for Manchester United? Does he think he's good enough himself? Does he want it?" Sheringham questioned, suggesting these factors should determine the player's future at the club.
Napoli's 'Crazy' Impressions and Contract Details
Sheringham isn't alone in recognising Hojlund's potential value to Manchester United. Former Napoli star Gianfranco Zola recently revealed that the Danish striker has been making significant waves in Italy. "Hojlund is driving everyone crazy, even people at Manchester United," Zola told Gazzetta dello Sport last month.
The 22-year-old has scored 10 goals in all competitions for Napoli this season, including a strike in Wednesday's Champions League defeat to Chelsea. His loan agreement includes an option for Napoli to purchase the player, which would become obligatory if Antonio Conte's side secures Champions League qualification for next season.
Napoli's European Ambitions and Hojlund's Role
Napoli's chances of reaching next season's Champions League suffered a setback this week with their elimination from the current competition. However, they remain fourth in Serie A, just one point above Juventus, keeping their qualification hopes alive.
Hojlund continues to be instrumental in Napoli's campaign, with the striker aiming to extend his impressive form this weekend as Antonio Conte's side hosts Fiorentina. His performances have clearly caught the attention of both his current club and his parent club in Manchester.
The Changing Landscape at Old Trafford
Sheringham highlighted the fluid nature of football management as another reason to reconsider Hojlund's situation. "Like I've said, things change very quickly in football. There's a different manager in charge now, and there could be another different one in the summer who has a whole new outlook, so why not?" he argued.
With Hojlund already contracted to Manchester United, Sheringham believes bringing him back makes practical sense. "He's already on the books at the football club, so Højlund will come into Carrick's equation in the summer," he noted, suggesting the player should be given another opportunity to prove himself at Old Trafford.
The debate around Hojlund's future continues as the transfer window approaches its conclusion, with his impressive Napoli form making a compelling case for his return to Manchester United's squad.