Updates on when Rasmus Hojlund could make Manchester United debut

Rasmus Hojlund has yet to appear for Manchester United following his £64 million move from Atalanta earlier this month.

The 20-year-old forward has been out of action with a small back problem and had the encounter against Nottingham Forest lined up as a potential debut at the start of the season.

However, reports from Samuel Luckhurst on Thursday morning state that the Denmark international’s debut for The Reds could be delayed until after the September international break.

On the other hand, Neil Custis of The Sun has reported that United are ‘hopeful’ that the striker is able to make the bench in the upcoming game this weekend.

Erik ten Hag’s side have fixtures against Forest and Arsenal before players jet off to play for their respective countries. On their return, United will face Brighton at Old Trafford and it seems like that could be the chance to finally see the new striker in action.

It would be a difficult afternoon for the team and him. Brighton have won both of their opening two games against Luton Town and Wolves by four goals to one.

United did beat Roberto De Zerbi’s side in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley last term, however, they were also the only team across that Premier League campaign to win against Ten Hag’s men at Old Trafford.

However, if Hojlund is introduced to the team by then, United will have a much stronger dynamic in their frontline than in the opening games.

Marcus Rashford will be able to return to the left wing. The England international has failed to inspire playing through the middle so far this season and Alejandro Garnacho, who has started on the left, perhaps has proven he is still a better option to make impacts coming from the bench.

Ten Hag explained the importance of the addition when United confirmed the signing before their Old Trafford friendly against RC Lens.

“He is really a front man, very direct to the goal,” said the Dutch boss. “A very good presser, a physical presence and I think in the balance of this squad we needed that.

“Alongside Rashford, [he is] another player who is direct and can score goals and that is all in his mind – he wants to score goals.”