Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund has applauded Mason Mount and Amad for their game-changing contributions in Thursday’s 4-1 win over Athletic Club.
United beat the Spanish outfit 7-1 on aggregate to sail through to the final of the Europa League, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur.
Mikel Jauregizar gave his side the lead in the first half with a fine attempt that silenced the Old Trafford crowd. However, Ruben Amorim made three changes in the second half that completely changed the game. He brought on Mount, Amad and Shaw.
Mount restored parity in the 72nd minute with a superb turn and finish. Casemiro added a second just moments later, heading home a sumptuous cross from Bruno Fernandes. Hojlund then made it 3-1 on the night, tapping in a low ball from Amad. Mount saved the best for last, scoring from near the halfway line with his weaker left foot.
After the final whistle, Hojlund spoke to beIN SPORTS and explained, “Yeah, very happy. Obviously it’s not been the best season but these are the moments we play for and we’re playing for trophies, so yes, it’s lovely to be in this situation again.”
Hojlund agreed that despite the club enduring a wretched Premier League season, the players have given themselves a chance of concluding the campaign strongly.
“You’re absolutely right. Take away the domestic part, I think we are unbeaten in this competition as well, so bit of a mixed bag, but here we stand and just like I said to you, it’s about winning trophies in the end and that’s what we play for.”
“Yeah, we’re standing here with a good opportunity to write ourselves into history.”
Asked what changed in the second half, Hojlund answered, “Not much really. We still got loads of chances in the first half but we just put them in the back of the net in the second half.”
“So yeah, we kept calm and followed the manager’s plan.”
Hojlund praised the impact of Amad and Mount.
“Yeah, lovely. It was very nice to score a scrappy goal. I am very happy Amad played the ball. What a player. Great player to have back in the team.”
“Them two players are extremely talented, so we are very glad to have them both back [Amad and Mount].”
Hojlund expressed hope that he and his teammates can get the job done in the final against Tottenham.
🗣️ “It’s not been the best season, but these are the moments you play for and we’re playing for trophies.” 🏆@AndyKerrtv speaks to Rasmus Højlund following @ManUtd‘s 4-1 victory over @AthleticClub!#UEL #MUFC pic.twitter.com/fdigyglzex
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) May 8, 2025
The Danish striker also spoke to TNT Sports [as quoted by Manchester Evening News] and remarked, “I’m very pleased for him [Mount]. He’s one of my very good friends in this team.”
“We came in the same summer and had a very good connection ever since. He’s a good lad. He’s always working very hard. He’s been getting a lot of stick because he’s had a couple of injuries, but he’s always been positive, trying to help and trying to get fit all the time.”
“He’s only had one goal, to get back on the pitch and yeah, do what he did today.”
Hojlund added, “I think there was good control, even though they got an early goal. I don’t think they played well in the first half and obviously they got the goal, a great goal on their side.”
“We were still in the game and had a couple of chances in the first half, but as soon as we got the first goal in the second half, I think we were cruising after that.”
He further stated about the final, “That’s why we’re in this competition, we want to win these tournaments and we’re playing against a good team, so we’re looking forward to that.”
Meanwhile, United are back in action on Sunday when they host West Ham at Old Trafford.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
