Denmark head coach Brian Riemer has aimed a thinly-veiled dig at Manchester United over their treatment of Rasmus Hojlund in comparison to Napoli.
Hojlund enjoying promising start to life at Napoli
Hojlund has rediscovered his form since parting ways with United and joining Napoli on an initial loan towards the end of the summer window.
The striker endured a tough time at United as he struggled to justify the £72m that was forked out to snap him up from Atalanta in 2023. Last term, Hojlund netted just four goals in 32 Premier League appearances.
He wasted no time in familiarising himself with his new surroundings at Napoli, scoring on his debut as the Serie A giants cruised to a 3-1 victory over Fiorentina. Last night, Hojlund bagged a brace for Napoli, who beat Sporting CP 2-1 to claim their first Champions League win of the campaign.
The United loanee finished both chances superbly and was duly named Player of the Match for his performance.
Rasmus Højlund ⚽️⚽️🏆 #UCL | #POTM pic.twitter.com/QRIxIn1yQ1
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 1, 2025
While United continue to struggle for goals, with new signing Benjamin Sesko still adjusting to English football, Hojlund is gradually regaining his rhythm.
This has not been lost on Riemer, who praised the 22-year-old while also suggesting that United never valued him as highly as Napoli do.
Riemer aims subtle criticism at United
Riemer told Tipsbladet, “I’m so happy that he has found a club where he now starts every time.”
“He has been through a difficult period, there’s no doubt about that, and now he is in a place where he is appreciated and is settling in.”
“That he can also score on his debut, that’s just great.”
It’s believed that Napoli’s option to buy Hojlund is set at €44m, but it becomes mandatory if the Partenopei qualify for the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Ruben Amorim and his players are back in action on Saturday when they take on Sunderland at Old Trafford.
Featured image Gabriele Maltinti 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!