Manchester United’s newest sensation, Rasmus Hojlund, is drawing attention not just for his prowess on the field, but also for comparisons with former Arsenal striker, Nicklas Bendtner.
Rasmus Hojlund‘s swift rise to fame at Manchester United has caught the attention of many, especially in his native Denmark.
Starting against Brighton this weekend, Hojlund’s £64 million summer transfer, which could rise to £72 million with add-ons, has come with big expectations. Yet, amidst the fanfare, there’s an unexpected, and probably unfair, comparison making the rounds.
Remember Nicklas Bendtner?
Arsenal’s cult hero who notched 30 goals in 81 international games for Denmark and whose self-confidence was so high it was literally off the chart?
Some have tried to claim Hojlund is the new Bendtner, a comparison drawn due to their shared nationality and physical presence up front.
But it’s not just fans making the comparison. Christian Mouroux, Hojlund’s youth coach, weighed in on the discussion, offering a light-hearted take on the ongoing debate.
“Bendtner was probably a more naturally-gifted footballer,” Mouroux quipped, suggesting that such talent might have led Bendtner to take things lightly.
“Rasmus is completely different. Sure, he might buy a bigger car or wear a flashy watch, but he won’t let fame get to his head.”
That’s certainly not something you can say about Bendtner, whose off-field antics garnered more column inches than his football.
With only six goals in eight international games, Hojlund’s journey is still in its early stages.
However, there’s a notable difference in attitude that could make all the difference.
Mouroux observed, “He has the right mentality for it. He’s disciplined, recognises the power of hard work, and it’s that very ethos that’s brought him to where he is today.”
Hojlund’s first taste of Premier League action saw him face Arsenal. His debut, even if off the bench, was electric enough to draw praise from Bendtner himself.
Speaking on his podcast, ‘Stolpe ind’, the former Gunner expressed hope for the young talent, stating, “We all hope that he succeeds. There’s no doubt about that.”
Even as an Arsenal fan, no matter how funny I find the comparison, I do have to say that Hojlund shows all the signs of being the player Nicklas Bendtner thought he was.