Lord Nicklas Bendtner was better! £72m Man Utd new boy Ramus Hojlund informed by former coach that ex-Arsenal striker was more naturally gifted
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- Red Devils have spent big on Danish forward
- Need him to become a fearsome No.9
- Avoid distractions that influenced countryman
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Red Devils have invested £72 million ($89m) in making Denmark international Hojlund the most expensive frontman that they have ever acquired. The Premier League giants hope that he will go on to become a long-term solution to the No.9 issues still being endured at Old Trafford.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Considerable faith is being shown in the 20-year-old forward, as he follows in the footsteps of fellow countryman Bendtner in making his way onto the Premier League stage. Christian Mouroux worked with both Danish frontmen during their younger days, and he sees the pair bringing different qualities to the table.
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WHAT THEY SAID
Mouroux, who coached Hojlund at the age of 12, has told The Sun: “A good comparison can be made to the other rising superstar we had in Nicklas Bendtner. They are both number nines, both very physical and have this twinkle in the eye. They are humorous, outgoing and cheeky. Bendtner was probably a more naturally gifted footballer but that perhaps made him take things more lightly and get influenced by everything that affects you from the outside when you become a superstar. Rasmus is completely different. Although I’m sure he will probably buy a bigger car and has a nice watch, it will not blow out of proportion. He has the right mentality for it. He is so disciplined. He is very aware of what hard work does for you and it’s hard work that has brought him to where he is today.”
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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Bendtner failed to sparkle at Arsenal, despite scoring 45 goals in 171 appearances, and headed into retirement at the age of 33 back in August 2020. Hojlund has made just one appearance off the bench for United so far, having arrived in England nursing a knock, but will be hoping to figure more prominently over the months ahead as he seeks to justify his hefty price tag.
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