Napoli's sporting director, Giovanni Manna, has declared that Rasmus Hojlund will 'almost certainly' be a permanent fixture at the Italian club next season, following the Danish striker's electrifying start to life on the Amalfi Coast.
From Manchester Misery to Neapolitan Success
The 22-year-old forward secured a late return to Serie A this summer after learning he was not part of new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim's plans. Hojlund had joined the Premier League giants just two seasons prior in a high-profile £72 million deal from Atalanta but managed only four Premier League goals in his final campaign at Old Trafford.
His fortunes have transformed dramatically in Naples. Since his arrival, Hojlund has been in prolific form, netting seven goals across all competitions and providing a further three assists, often linking up effectively with fellow former Manchester United player Scott McTominay.
A Deal Built on Desire and Obligation
Manna's confidence in the permanence of the move is rooted in both the player's clear intent and the structured terms of the agreement with Manchester United. The loan deal includes an obligation to buy Hojlund for £38 million should Napoli qualify for the Champions League next season.
With Antonio Conte's side currently sitting third in Serie A, well inside the top four and just two points behind leaders Inter Milan, that clause is increasingly likely to be triggered. 'As of today, I think so,' Manna stated when asked if making the transfer permanent was a formality.
'What a Great Decision Looks Like'
The sporting director emphasised the mutual commitment, telling Corriere dello Sport: 'The player considers himself a Napoli player, and the same goes for us. This is extremely important.' He revealed that the club fought off interest from 'more storied clubs' to secure Hojlund, whose own determination to join Napoli was 'crucial'.
Hojlund has publicly validated that sentiment. After Napoli's Italian Super Cup victory over Bologna before Christmas, the striker posted a celebratory picture in the famous sky blue shirt with the caption: 'What a great decision looks like'.
In a recent interview, he elaborated on his choice, stating he 'wanted to wear the Azzurri shirt straight away' and that a decisive call from manager Antonio Conte sealed the deal. 'The first call with Conte was brief but very clear,' Hojlund said. 'We both knew it was the right step for me. When a coach like him calls you, you just have to say yes.'
The ambitious Dane also highlighted his focus on continuous improvement, both on the pitch and in adapting to his new home, noting he is diligently learning Italian to better integrate into the culture at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
