Man Utd cannot afford brotherly love from Hojlund in Copenhagen reunion

Manchester United has no room for sentimentality as Rasmus Hojlund prepares to face his younger twin brothers and former club, FC Copenhagen, at Old Trafford on Tuesday. The Red Devils are in desperate need of a win to salvage their Champions League campaign, and the evening is bound to be emotional following the recent passing of club legend Bobby Charlton. Charlton, widely regarded as one of United’s greatest ever players, died at the age of 86 on Saturday. The team is looking for inspiration as they aim to avoid a grim milestone — losing their first two group stage matches in Champions League history.

Hojlund has been a bright spot for United, having scored three goals in his first two Champions League appearances against Bayern Munich and Galatasaray. The Danish player’s £64 million move from Atalanta in August marked a meteoric rise for the 20-year-old, who was sold by Copenhagen for just £1.7 million to Sturm Graz in January last year. Hojlund’s father criticized the Danish champions for not giving him sufficient playing time, which led to his departure.

Hojlund’s two twin brothers, Emil and Oscar, are still at Copenhagen and looking to follow in their older sibling’s footsteps. Emil, a physical forward, may have to wait for his chance to face Rasmus, as he has primarily played for the under-19 team. Meanwhile, midfielder Oscar is expected to feature in the visitors’ squad at Old Trafford, having already made his debut in the Champions League against Galatasaray.

The success of United’s season largely depends on Hojlund’s performance. He has already scored three goals this season, with only holding midfielder Casemiro surpassing him. The rest of the team’s forward line has struggled, particularly Marcus Rashford, who has only scored once compared to his 30 goals last season. Hojlund, although yet to score a Premier League goal, has shown glimpses of his potential with his strength and speed. United saw something unique in him, which convinced them to choose him over pursuing Harry Kane as their new number nine.

“What I see in Rasmus is completely unique,” said Peter Moller, head of the Danish Football Federation. “He possesses the dynamism and fearlessness of youth, and he believes in himself. At the same time, he remains humble, hard-working, and a pleasant presence.”

Hojlund has already demonstrated his potential at the international level, scoring seven goals in eight Euro 2024 qualifiers for Denmark. United will need him to maintain his deadly form against Danish opposition to avoid an embarrassing early exit from the Champions League.

kca/jc