Hojlund, who cost United a staggering £72 million ($98m) from Atalanta in 2023, endured two bruising campaigns in England where his promise never quite turned into consistent goals. After a season that saw him tumble down the pecking order under Ruben Amorim, his career in red looked finished. But in Naples, under Antonio Conte, he’s hit the ground running.
Hojlund’s record at United tells its own story: 26 goals in 95 matches across all competitions, a return far below the expectations for such a hefty price tag. The arrivals of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha only pushed him further to the fringes. The 22-year-old accepted a loan switch to Serie A champions Napoli,with an obligation to buy if they secure Champions League qualification. And already, it looks like a gamble that could pay off after he found the net against Fiorentina.
If United fans are conflicted about seeing their £72m flop thriving elsewhere, the players inside the Old Trafford camp have shown nothing but support. An Instagram post from Hojlund with the caption “First day at the new job didn’t disappoint” drew warm responses from familiar faces. Harry Maguire replied with: “Love it mate.” Antony, now plying his trade at Real Betis, responded with applause emojis. The likes of Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Kobbie Mainoo, Matthijs de Ligt and even Amorim’s summer signings, Sesko, Cunha and Mbeumo, all dropped likes. Whatever his struggles in Manchester, Hojlund clearly left behind allies who want to see him succeed.
Hojlund’s struggles at United may never be forgotten, but Naples has given him the perfect platform to rewrite his story. His next test? A return to Manchester to face City in the Champions League. A goal at the Etihad on Thursday evening would not just make headlines, it would underline his transformation from United misfit to continental danger man.
