Latest news with #RasmusHøjlund
Irish Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Irish Times
Premier League players who need a move to revitalise their careers
Evan Ferguson, Brighton Ferguson's breakthrough hat-trick against Newcastle feels like a lifetime ago now. The young striker seemed destined for greatness but he has struggled to live up to his early billing. Having failed to break into the Brighton team under Fabian Hürzeler, Ferguson spent the second half of the season on loan at West Ham, where he started just one league game. At 20 years of age, time is on the Republic of Ireland international's side but his future will be best served away from the Amex. Jack Grealish, Manchester City Just two years ago Grealish was at the centre of the celebrations as Manchester City won the treble. He now feels very peripheral. A combination of injuries and increased competition in the squad restricted the 29-year-old to just seven league starts this season. The FA Cup final will have been particularly frustrating for Grealish, who was left on the bench while City failed to create chances against Crystal Palace. With the game slipping away, Pep Guardiola sent on the teenager Claudio Echeverri for his debut rather than turning to Grealish. With City in the market another attacker – Rayan Cherki is a target – the former Aston Villa captain desperately needs to leave this summer to restart his stuttering career and reignite his hopes of playing at the World Cup next year. Rasmus Højlund, Manchester United Højlund moved to Manchester United from Atalanta with a big reputation. Two years and 14 league goals later, and the 22-year-old looks likely to leave Old Trafford in a transfer that would suit all parties. He has been given little service and is often feeding on scraps in a team that do not create enough chances, but the Dane has been an unmitigated disaster for United and a return to Italy has been mooted. Højlund showed bags of potential during his one and only season in Serie A, and he'll hope a summer exit gets his development back on track. Marcus Rashford. Photograph: Zac Goodwin/PA Marcus Rashford, Manchester United Rashford showcased his quality during his short loan stint with Aston Villa, where he seemed revitalised after a difficult few months working under Ruben Amorim. A permanent switch to Villa is unlikely after they failed to qualify for the Champions League, but the 27-year-old is available to any club who will bid £40m. Amorim has suggested he would rather pick his 63-year-old goalkeeping coach than Rashford and the club need to raise funds to strengthen after a disappointing season. READ MORE Jadon Sancho, Manchester United Chelsea's decision not to make Sancho's move permanent leaves the 25-year-old in limbo. It's clear he has no future at Manchester United, meaning he's another asset the club need to cash in on if they are to bolster the squad. Sancho didn't necessarily struggle during his season at Chelsea. He made 41 appearances, scoring five goals and setting up 10 more; he even capped his time at the club with a lovely goal in the Conference League final. But he was not consistent enough. Of the 156 players who attempted at least 25 crosses in the Premier League this season, he was the only player who did not find a team-mate once. Federico Chiesa, Liverpool Liverpool were quiet in the transfer market last summer, but they did bring in Chiesa to provide cover for Mohamed Salah on the right flank. The injury-prone Italian has been called upon rarely by Arne Slot, even when fit, playing just 466 minutes in all competitions – the equivalent of just over five games. With a club record £109m deal for Florian Wirtz gathering momentum, a move away from Anfield will only be a good thing for the 27-year-old. Harvey Elliott. Photograph: Adam Davy/PA Harvey Elliott, Liverpool Elliott will also fall down the pecking order if Liverpool sign Wirtz. The 22-year-old has never really consolidated a starting spot despite looking sharp when called upon by Jürgen Klopp and Slot. A switch to Bayer Leverkusen appears to be off, but the midfielder would be a great signing for a number of Premier League clubs. Darwin Núñez, Liverpool With a move for a new striker in the offing, Núñez's time at Liverpool is expected to end this summer. The Uruguayan failed to win over Slot. He had his moment in the sun, coming off the bench to score twice in a vital victory at Brentford in January, but he is painfully inconsistent. Núñez finished the season with more yellow cards (eight) than goal involvements (seven) in the Premier League. He played the full 90 minutes just three times in the league this season – not good enough for a striker who cost £85m. Kepa, Chelsea Chelsea already have a plethora of goalkeepers on the books and they are preparing to make an offer to Milan for Mike Maignan, so Kepa needs to find a permanent route out of Stamford Bridge. Football's most expensive goalkeeper was solid during his loan spell at Bournemouth last season, saving 71.3 per cent of the shots he faced, which should tempt interested parties. He is still only 30 so should have a few more seasons at the top. Raheem Sterling. Photograph: James Gill/Danehouse/Getty Images Raheem Sterling, Chelsea On paper, Sterling looked like a solid loan signing for Arsenal. He had Premier League experience, a history of winning trophies and the ability to cover any position across the frontline. However, the 30-year-old failed to make his mark, with perhaps his best performance coming in the League Cup against League One side Bolton. He did not score a single goal in 17 league appearances. Arsenal have understandably sent the winger back to Chelsea. Having been deemed surplus to requirements by Maresca last summer, his time at Stamford Bridge needs to end this summer. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Chelsea When Enzo Maresca was appointed head coach last summer, it wasn't a huge surprise to see Chelsea sign midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for £30m to replace Atlético Madrid-bound Conor Gallagher. That money has proven a waste. The 26-year-old has started just two Premier League games for the club and was linked with a January move to West Ham. Chelsea have since signed Dário Essugo from Sporting for £18.5m, reinforcing the idea that Dewsbury-Hall needs to move on. Having failed to break into the first team under Maresca, there seems little point in the former Leicester man hanging around. Christopher Nkunku, Chelsea Nkunku moved to Chelsea two years ago for £51m with a big reputation after a stellar final season with RB Leipzig. Injuries affected the Frenchman's debut campaign at Stamford Bridge, and he has never fully recovered or consolidated a regular starting spot. Approaching the peak years of his career, the 27-year-old should leave and start again at a new club. Armando Broja, Chelsea Chelsea have been trying their hardest to sell Broja in recent windows but have only succeeded in loaning the Albanian striker to other Premier League sides. Broja had a forgettable stint with Fulham before spending this season on loan at Everton, where he registered just 331 minutes of league action. The 23-year-old is an effective frontman when fit, but a change of surroundings is a necessity to avoid a 'what if' career. – Guardian
Business Upturn
25-05-2025
- Sport
- Business Upturn
Manchester United vs Aston Villa: Key players to watch in this Premier League fixture
The Premier League 2024-25 season wraps up with a high-stakes clash at Old Trafford on May 25, 2025, as Manchester United face Aston Villa. With Villa chasing a coveted Champions League spot and United desperate to salvage pride in a dismal campaign, this match promises intensity and drama. Here, we spotlight the key players who could define this thrilling encounter. Aston Villa's Key Players to Watch Ollie Watkins Aston Villa's talismanic striker Ollie Watkins has been a standout performer, consistently finding the back of the net this season. His pace, movement, and finishing make him a constant threat, especially against United's shaky defense. Emiliano Martínez World Cup winner Emiliano Martínez has been instrumental in Villa's defensive solidity, with his recent clean sheets underlining his importance. His commanding presence, sharp reflexes, and ability to organize the backline will be crucial against United's attacking midfielders like Bruno Fernandes. Morgan Rogers Morgan Rogers has emerged as a dynamic force in Villa's midfield, blending creativity with relentless energy. His dribbling and vision have unlocked defenses, and his recent performances, including a key role in the 2-0 win over Tottenham, highlight his growing influence. Manchester United's Key Players to Watch Bruno Fernandes Despite Manchester United's struggles, captain Bruno Fernandes remains their creative heartbeat. His vision, passing, and knack for delivering in big moments make him a constant danger. Fernandes will look to orchestrate attacks and create chances for Rasmus Højlund, aiming to end the season on a positive note. Rasmus Højlund Young striker Rasmus Højlund has shown flashes of brilliance despite United's inconsistent season. His physicality and goal-scoring instincts could trouble Villa's center-backs, Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings. Højlund's ability to convert limited chances will be critical for United to upset Villa's Champions League ambitions. Kobbie Mainoo Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been a bright spot in United's otherwise lackluster campaign. His composure, tackling, and ability to drive forward could disrupt Villa's rhythm. Mainoo's battle against Villa's robust midfield, particularly Amadou Onana, will be a fascinating subplot in this match. Aston VillaManchester United Aman Shukla is a post-graduate in mass communication . A media enthusiast who has a strong hold on communication ,content writing and copy writing. Aman is currently working as journalist at
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Manchester United Ready to Sell Forward with Fenerbahçe Leading the Chase
Rasmus Højlund to Fenerbahçe? Mourinho Eyes Manchester United Striker as Summer Reinforcements Begin Mourinho's Istanbul Revolution Continues José Mourinho's Fenerbahçe have reportedly set their sights on Manchester United's misfiring forward Rasmus Højlund, according to a new report from Having already brought familiar Premier League faces Fred and Sofyan Amrabat to Turkey, Mourinho's next move could further deepen his Manchester United connections — this time up front. Advertisement It's been a mixed debut season at Old Trafford for Højlund, whose Premier League output stands at just four goals in 30 appearances. Despite showing glimpses of potential, he's struggled to assert himself as the commanding No.9 United thought they were getting. With United eager to overhaul their frontline and bring in more clinical firepower, Højlund may be one of the sacrifices. Attacking Revamp at Old Trafford It's no secret United are seeking a new focal point in attack. Both Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have underperformed, and as the club look to trigger Matheus Cunha's £62.5 million release clause at Wolves and chase Ipswich Town's Liam Delap, someone has to make way. Photo: IMAGO 'Man Utd are willing to sell Hojlund – and Zirkzee – to fund their own attacking revamp this summer,' TEAMtalk revealed last month. That reality makes a Turkish escape plausible for the Denmark international. Fenerbahçe Plot Ambitious Double Swoop Sozcu reports that Fenerbahçe are keen to sign two 'star' strikers this summer, with Rasmus Højlund top of their wish list. Mourinho is anticipating the possible exits of Edin Džeko, Youssef En-Nesyri and Cenk Tosun, and is eager to reshape his frontline. Advertisement A 'first offer' from Fenerbahçe is expected to come in the form of a loan deal with an option to buy. While the figure remains unclear, such a move would suit Mourinho's tactical evolution in Istanbul. His admiration for Højlund isn't new either — after the sides met in Europe, Mourinho commented how the Dane can 'attack the spaces'. Photo: IMAGO Serie A Calling Again? Fenerbahçe are not alone in their interest. Italian clubs are said to be circling, with former club Atalanta among those monitoring developments. A return to Serie A — a league that suits Højlund's game — may prove more tempting than a move east. Advertisement Still, Mourinho's presence changes things. His track record of reinvigorating players, coupled with Fenerbahçe's ambition, makes this one to watch. United's Dilemma and Højlund's Future 'On the surface, it seems likelier that Man Utd would prefer to cash in on Hojlund if he's out of their plans. They need player sales to balance the books.' That stark assessment, again from Sozcu, reflects the financial pressures at Old Trafford — pressures which could open the door for Mourinho to strike. Whether Højlund sees his future in Turkey is another matter. The player didn't find the net in three meetings against Mourinho-coached sides, and a switch to a league that values technical sharpness over physicality could be an awkward fit. Advertisement Still, for Mourinho, it would be another clever reclaim project. For United, it might simply be good business. Our View – EPL Index There's something deeply concerning about how quickly Manchester United appear ready to offload Rasmus Højlund. He's just 21, playing his first season in the Premier League, and has been thrown into a dysfunctional side starved of service. Four goals in 30 league games is underwhelming, yes, but so is the midfield creativity and the lack of a consistent tactical identity around him. Selling him to Fenerbahçe — or anyone — this early feels premature. Mourinho might see something United have failed to develop properly. That's damning for United's recruitment and coaching setup more than it is for the player. Advertisement If the reports from Sozcu are accurate and the first offer is just a loan with an option to buy, then it's hard to see how that benefits United unless they're truly convinced he's not worth developing further. But what message does that send to other young players considering Old Trafford as their next step? There's a lot to fix at United, but pulling the plug on young talent after one season might only deepen the club's long-term issues.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Amorim praises ‘perfect' Mount for driving Manchester United into final
A delighted Ruben Amorim praised 'perfect' two-goal Mason Mount, as Manchester United swept past Athletic Bilbao and into the Europa League final against Tottenham, with four late strikes in 19 minutes. Ruben Amorim's men trailed 1-0 to Athletic Bilbao following Mikel Jauregizar's first-half opener at Old Trafford and led 3-1 on aggregate before Mount equalised on 72 minutes of the second leg. Goals from Casemiro and Rasmus Højlund, in the 79th and 85th minutes followed before Mount scored again in added-time's first minute. Related: Mount's fine double sweeps Manchester United past Bilbao into all-English final The 26-year-old's opener came via an impressive pivot-and-curled finish, the second a precise 45-yard shot into Athletic's empty net. The goals were Mount's finest contribution for United following a series of injuries that have blighted him since he signed in summer 2023. Amorim said: 'I'm so happy for him. He is such a player. He works really hard, he has quality. When you see that kind of guy like Mason working hard every day, eating well, having ice baths, when you have this kind of player you just want to help him. He is perfect for this position as he can be a midfielder, but also runs like a winger so I'm really happy for him. 'Not just me – if you look at the bench, that is the best feeling as a coach, you look at the other guys on the bench and they are so happy for Mason Mount – everyone in that dressing room sees Mason Mount doing everything to be available. He is a really good player and both goals were really good.' Mount entered on 62 minutes with Amad Diallo and Luke Shaw, as part of a triple change from Amorim that the head coach acknowledged 'changed the game'. 'That is credit to the players,' he added. 'I felt we needed a bit more energy. We needed to keep the ball.' United are down in 15th and guaranteed to finish in their lowest Premier League place. Amorim was asked what claiming the Europa League in the final at the San Mamés Stadium on Wednesday week would represent. He said: 'Every coach will say the next one is the most important. Your first is the most important [at a club] because you want to establish yourself as a coach, but it would be massive especially after this season in the Premier League. 'I think that is clear [confidence would be boosted] – the money is not the most important and even to win a title as a coach is that feeling we can do good things, to give something to our fans. So I agree it is not just playing in the Champions League next season, it is that feeling we can change things.' United have lost twice to Spurs in the league and once in the Carabao Cup this season. 'Every game has its history, we lost the three last games so we can win this one,' said Amorim. 'You look at the odds, we are closer to win than lose. Both teams are going to play all or nothing. 'The position of the coach is similar, I know Ange [Postecoglou] has one more year but we are struggling both of us [in our jobs]. That is the good thing. The bad thing with this team? I never know. We have to understand that a final is completely different from the Premier League.'
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Amorim praises ‘perfect' Mount after driving Manchester United into final
A delighted Ruben Amorim praised 'perfect' two-goal Mason Mount, as Manchester United swept past Athletic Bilbao and into the Europa League final against Tottenham, with four late strikes in 19 minutes. Ruben Amorim's men trailed 1-0 to Athletic Bilbao following Mikel Jauregizar's first-half opener at Old Trafford and led 3-1 on aggregate before Mount equalised on 72 minutes of the second leg. Goals from Casemiro and Rasmus Højlund, in the 79th and 85th minutes followed before Mount scored again in added-time's first minute. Advertisement Related: Mount's fine double sweeps Manchester United past Bilbao into all-English final The 26-year-old's opener came via an impressive pivot-and-curled finish, the second a precise 45-yard shot into Athletic's empty net. The goals were Mount's finest contribution for United following a series of injuries that have blighted him since he signed in summer 2023. Amorim said: 'I'm so happy for him. He is such a player. He works really hard, he has quality. When you see that kind of guy like Mason working hard every day, eating well, having ice baths, when you have this kind of player you just want to help him. He is perfect for this position as he can be a midfielder, but also runs like a winger so I'm really happy for him. 'Not just me – if you look at the bench, that is the best feeling as a coach, you look at the other guys on the bench and they are so happy for Mason Mount – everyone in that dressing room sees Mason Mount doing everything to be available. He is a really good player and both goals were really good.' Advertisement Mount entered on 62 minutes with Amad Diallo and Luke Shaw, as part of a triple change from Amorim that the head coach acknowledged 'changed the game'. 'That is credit to the players,' he added. 'I felt we needed a bit more energy. We needed to keep the ball.' United are down in 15th and guaranteed to finish in their lowest Premier League place. Amorim was asked what claiming the Europa League in the final at the San Mamés Stadium on Wednesday week would represent. He said: 'Every coach will say the next one is the most important. Your first is the most important [at a club] because you want to establish yourself as a coach, but it would be massive especially after this season in the Premier League. Advertisement 'I think that is clear [confidence would be boosted] – the money is not the most important and even to win a title as a coach is that feeling we can do good things, to give something to our fans. So I agree it is not just playing in the Champions League next season, it is that feeling we can change things.' United have lost twice to Spurs in the league and once in the Carabao Cup this season. 'Every game has its history, we lost the three last games so we can win this one,' said Amorim. 'You look at the odds, we are closer to win than lose. Both teams are going to play all or nothing. 'The position of the coach is similar, I know Ange [Postecoglou] has one more year but we are struggling both of us [in our jobs]. That is the good thing. The bad thing with this team? I never know. We have to understand that a final is completely different from the Premier League.'
