Rasmus Hojlund's Napoli Form 'Driving Man United Crazy' as Ten Hag Decision Slammed
Rasmus Hojlund's impressive loan spell at Napoli from Manchester United is reportedly causing significant frustration at Old Trafford, with former Premier League star Gianfranco Zola claiming the striker's success is 'driving everyone crazy, even people at Manchester United'. The Danish forward has netted nine goals for the Serie A champions this season, drawing widespread acclaim in Italy.
Loan Deal Details and Permanent Option
Hojlund departed United last summer to join Napoli on a season-long loan agreement that includes a significant option for a permanent transfer. The Italian club possess the right to secure the striker for £43.5 million (€50 million) at the campaign's conclusion. This option transforms into an obligation to buy should Napoli qualify for the Champions League, adding considerable financial incentive to their European ambitions.
Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has expressed strong confidence about making the deal permanent, stating: 'We had no doubts. Rasmus is decisive in terms of numbers, but also in how he understands the coach's input. This makes a difference.' Manna emphasised the player's commitment, noting: 'The player considers himself a Napoli player, and the same goes for us. This is extremely important.'
Zola's Scathing Assessment of United's Decision
Gianfranco Zola delivered a particularly critical analysis of Manchester United's handling of Hojlund's departure. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Chelsea forward didn't mince words regarding Erik ten Hag's role in the situation. 'After McTominay left because of [Erik] ten Hag's reckless decisions, they let go of a striker like that,' Zola asserted, referencing Scott McTominay's permanent departure to Napoli in 2024.
Zola's comments highlight growing scrutiny of United's transfer strategy under Ten Hag's management, particularly regarding their attacking options. The Dutch manager oversaw significant changes to United's forward line last summer, with Hojlund's exit accompanied by the arrivals of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha in a comprehensive offensive overhaul.
Hojlund's Performance Context and United History
Hojlund's current form in Italy follows a respectable but perhaps underwhelming stint at Manchester United. The striker managed ten goals during his second season at Old Trafford following his £72 million move from Atalanta in 2023. His nine-goal tally for Napoli this campaign represents a strong return, especially considering he's adapting to a new league and system under manager Antonio Conte.
The striker's reunion with former United teammate Scott McTominay at Napoli has added an intriguing subplot to the narrative. While Hojlund arrived on loan, McTominay's transfer was permanent, completed during Ten Hag's tenure as United manager in 2024.
Future Uncertainty and Napoli's Confidence
Despite the permanent option in his contract, Hojlund's long-term future remains somewhat uncertain, dependent on Napoli's Champions League qualification and the club's willingness to trigger the substantial transfer fee. However, Manna's public statements suggest strong confidence from the Italian side.
'We did everything we could to sign him. There were more storied clubs interested, but his will was crucial, and we are proud of it,' Manna revealed in Corriere dello Sport, indicating Hojlund's personal preference played a decisive role in the loan arrangement. When questioned about the likelihood of a permanent transfer, Manna responded: 'As of today, I think so.'
The situation continues to develop as Napoli pursue their Serie A and European objectives, with Hojlund's performances directly influencing both his future and ongoing assessments of Manchester United's recent transfer decisions.
