When Manchester United splashed out £72 million on Rasmus Hojlund in the summer of 2023, hopes were high for the young Danish striker to lead the line under Erik ten Hag.
Despite a slow start and struggles in front of goal, Hojlund eventually found his rhythm, notching 10 league goals and playing a crucial role in United’s FA Cup triumph. Yet, with a disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League, questions linger about whether the club made the right decision.
In opting for Hojlund, United passed up the opportunity to sign another rising star: French international Randal Kolo Muani. The former Eintracht Frankfurt sensation had caught the eye with his explosive form in the Bundesliga, tallying 26 goals and 17 assists in 50 appearances. His move to Paris Saint-Germain in a £76.4 million transfer, however, has not delivered the impact many expected, as he has also managed just two league goals so far this season.
The parallels between Hojlund and Kolo Muani are striking. Both players have struggled to find consistent form in front of goal, but their potential remains undeniable. Hojlund’s physicality, speed, and work ethic earned him plaudits, even during a barren spell, while Kolo Muani’s versatility and ability to operate on the wing make him an intriguing prospect for any top club.
Recent reports suggest that Manchester United are reigniting their interest in Kolo Muani. According to The Athletic, the Red Devils, alongside Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus, are exploring a potential loan move for the 6ft 2in forward as they look to strengthen their attack in the January transfer window. With Ruben Amorim now steering the ship at Old Trafford following Ten Hag’s departure, a fresh approach to squad building appears inevitable.
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Amorim, known for his tactical adaptability and sharp eye for talent, is reportedly keen to reshape the attack-heavy team he inherited. The future of Marcus Rashford remains uncertain, adding further urgency to the search for reinforcements. Should Rashford depart, Amorim would be left with Hojlund as the only recognized striker—a precarious position given the Dane’s injury record and inconsistent form.
A potential move for Kolo Muani would bring a new dimension to United’s frontline. His ability to stretch defenses with his pace and link up play with teammates could complement Hojlund’s more direct style. Furthermore, Kolo Muani’s capacity to operate from the wings adds tactical flexibility, providing Amorim with additional options in attack.
While Hojlund’s first season at United has been a mixed bag, it is too early to write off the 21-year-old. Many great strikers have endured rocky starts before finding their footing in the Premier League. However, with United’s attacking issues persisting, the potential arrival of Kolo Muani could provide much-needed competition and depth.
Both players’ trajectories serve as reminders of the unpredictability of football transfers. Hojlund’s relatively modest record before joining United did not deter Ten Hag from placing faith in his development. Similarly, Kolo Muani’s impressive Bundesliga numbers have yet to translate into dominance in Ligue 1.
As January looms, the pressure is mounting on United to get their transfer dealings right. Amorim’s search for attacking reinforcements may be the key to salvaging a challenging season. Whether Kolo Muani is the answer remains to be seen, but his name continues to circle around Old Trafford—a tantalizing prospect for fans eager for a turnaround.
For now, the gamble on Hojlund remains under scrutiny, while the path not taken with Kolo Muani offers a fascinating subplot in United’s ongoing efforts to reclaim their former glory.