Denmark manager Brian Reimer has sent a dig Manchester United’s way while discussing Rasmus Højlund’s move to Napoli.
After a difficult season for Rasmus Højlund, many thought that he would stay at Manchester United and play backup to a new addition, but it seems Rúben Amorim favoured Joshua Zirkzee in this role.
When Benjamin Šeško’s transfer was nearing completion, Højlund was dropped from the starting lineup, with Matheus Cunha becoming the recognised centre forward. And, in the final pre-season match against Fiorentina, Højlund didn’t feature at all despite being named on the bench.
The Danish striker remained at Old Trafford for a short while longer, but on Deadline Day, he completed a move to Napoli on an initial loan deal with an option to buy. However, the transfer can become mandatory if certain conditions are met.
Many people – including staff members at United – feel that the treatment of Højlund was unfair, but now the former Atalanta man has an opportunity to reignite his career back in Italy.
Denmark boss praises Højlund
Despite his poor form in a United shirt, Højlund has continued to play a key role for his national side and looked promising for his country. Perhaps, he felt less pressure playing for Denmark than he did for United.
Speaking to TipsBladet, Denmark manager Brian Reimer praised Højlund for deciding to move back to Italy after a difficult time in Manchester.
“I think Rasmus Højlund’s move to Italian football is an exciting choice,” said Reimer when asked about Højlund’s move. “That’s where he had his big international breakthrough, and now he has the opportunity to return to something that worked.
“I expect him to reach the level he showed when he was last in Serie A. He is moving to do something different than where he comes from. I look forward to following him, because it is an interesting choice.”
Reimer also continued to say: “There are many arrows that point to him being a good fit for Serie A. If you look at the league’s playing style, it has always suited the type of player Rasmus is. That’s a good start. And he has already shown that he can score goals in that league.”
Reimer sends dig towards United
The Denmark manager didn’t hide his excitement when asked about Højlund’s move away from Manchester, as he gave another reason why the Dane may perform better in his new surroundings.
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“He has shown that he can perform in those surroundings, and he comes to a well-functioning club, and that is also crucial for me,” said Reimer.
United has been a place where great players have crumbled in recent years, likely due to the overwhelming pressure that comes with wearing a Red Devils shirt.
While Højlund may not have been the right man for Amorim or United, he won’t have been able to showcase his full ability at Old Trafford. His form in a Napoli shirt will be very interesting to see.
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