Manchester United star set for £38m summer exit

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Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna left little room for uncertainty when discussing the deal.

“There are no doubts. Rasmus will stay here.

“We have an obligation to buy from Manchester United, in case of Champions League access, but he is in our plans regardless of this condition.”

Those words carry significance. Napoli view Hojlund as part of their future, while United viewed him as a problem to solve.

Schmeichel Questions Manchester United Decision

Peter Schmeichel’s comments reflect a wider frustration around United’s recruitment strategy and player development.

“A bit of a shame because I like Hojlund by the way and think he could have been absolutely fantastic. But I don’t think he wants to come back.”

Nicky Butt also pointed towards the deeper issue.

“What they did with Hojlund was wrong because they brought a young boy in who’s not got any Premier League experience and asked him to carry Manchester United.”

That observation cuts through much of the noise surrounding modern transfers. Manchester United did not sign an emerging striker to support his development, they signed him to rescue a failing attack instantly.

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This story feels painfully familiar. There is frustration, not because Hojlund failed completely, but because the United once again appeared to misunderstand what they were buying.

Many supporters still believe there is a top striker in there. The raw attributes never disappeared. Pace, movement, aggression and willingness to work were obvious from the beginning. What he lacked was protection from expectation. At United, every missed chance became a headline and every poor result amplified the scrutiny.

Fans will also look at Napoli’s handling of the player and wonder why United could not create a similar environment. Conte simplified the role, built confidence and removed some pressure. At Old Trafford, Hojlund often looked isolated and overwhelmed.

There is relief at recovering £38 million, particularly given the financial situation, but little satisfaction. Watching a young striker thrive elsewhere while United continue searching for solutions up front will inevitably leave supporters questioning the club’s long term planning yet again.