For a dominating 4-1 win at Soldier Field over Bournemouth, Rasmus Højlund put his commitment to the future of Manchester United. The Dane could open scoring with a fine header that demonstrated his worth, while there are still questions concerning the club’s chasing for more strikers.
Rasmus Højlund Stakes His Claim Amid Transfer Gossip
With Manchester United upping the ante to sign Benjamin Sesko, the RB Leipzig player priced at more than €80 million, doubts still linger for Rasmus Højlund’s future at Old Trafford. Despite netting only four Premier League goals during the last campaign, the 21-year-old has attracted the attention of teams such as Napoli and Juventus.
But Højlund’s strike after only eight minutes in the Bournemouth game could be a difference-maker. Getting onto Patrick Dorgu’s precision cross, Højlund held his own space in the box and guided a delicate header just inside the far post, reminding supporters and manager Ruben Amorim of his goal-scoring ability.
Patrick Dorgu and Mason Mount Get United’s Second
United doubled their advantage after 25 minutes when the left wing-back Patrick Dorgu completed an outstanding attacking move. After a quick free-kick from Mason Mount, he guided a low shot past Djordje Petrovic, the new signing from Bournemouth for Chelsea. This goal was the latest to add to Dorgu’s already remarkable preseason reputation.
Amad Diallo and Højlund contribute to the scoreline in the second half
In the 53rd minute, Amad Diallo sealed United’s third with a calm finish inside the box. The ball seemed to graze Rasmus Højlund’s boot on the way in, and the two marked their growing bond on the field by celebrating the goal together.
Tom Heaton Shines in Goal Amid Onana’s Injury Fear
With Onana being sidelined due to a hamstring injury, experienced goalkeeper Tom Heaton came in between the sticks. The 39-year-old, of course, put in a decent shift, including keeping Dango Ouattara out in the first half and making a great reflex save from Antoine Semenyo in the second. Whilst Onana recovers, Heaton and Altay Bayindir will most likely be itching to mark their Premier League debut against Arsenal.
Teenager Ethan Williams Seals the Win
Following Ruben Amorim’s wholesale changes in the 70th minute, 19-year-old Ethan Williams took advantage of his opportunity. The young striker netted United’s fourth with a confident finish inside the post, it being a preseason highlight for the academy graduate.
Late Deflection Spoils Heaton’s Clean Sheet
The sole blot on an otherwise commanding display came at the very end. David Brooks’ cross was diverted past Tom Heaton into the net by Matthijs De Ligt.
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Rasmus Højlund Sends a Message to Amorim
With added pressure from the club’s chase of a new No.9, Rasmus Højlund has answered most excellently on the field. His timely goal, intelligent movement, and passing with fellow teammates such as Amad and Dorgu indicate that he’s set to spearhead the line for Manchester United this coming season.
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