'I'm happy for Hojlund' - Amorim SNUBS Rashford after scoring brace for Barcelona in Champions League
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'I'm happy for Hojlund' - Amorim SNUBS Rashford after scoring brace for Barcelona in Champions League | Photo Credits: IMAGO/PA

'I'm happy for Hojlund' - Amorim SNUBS Rashford after scoring brace for Barcelona in Champions League

David Ben 10:35 - 20.09.2025

Amorim has made his feelings known about Marcus Rashford, after ignoring questions about the Barca forward to shower praise on another Man United loanee.

Rasmus Højlund’s recent performances for Napoli are fast becoming a case study in how patience can pay off.

 After a difficult spell at Manchester United, the 22-year-old Dane finally made his debut for Napoli in their 3-1 Serie A victory over Fiorentina. 

Hojlund’s move to Naples was sealed with a season-long loan that includes an obligation to buy for £38 million should the Italians qualify for the Champions League.

Rasmus Hojlund scores on his Napoli debut against Fiorentina. Photo: Imago

Despite starting in Napoli’s 2-0 Champions League loss at Manchester City, Højlund’s spark against Fiorentina has reignited debate on whether the criticism at United was fair, or he was let down by system.

What Amorim said

Ruben Amorim
Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim (Photo Credit: Man Utd)

Man United boss Ruben Amorim, appeared to answer that when asked about Marcus Rashford’s brace for Barcelona at St James’ Park

Marcus Rashford
Rashford opened his season account for Barcelona with two goals against Newcastle United | Credit: Getty

Rather than celebrating Rashford, he used the moment to defend Højlund.

Speaking to the media, Amorim said: “And Rasmus. Rasmus scoring the first goal for Napoli. So I’m really happy for Rasmus also.

Rasmus Hojlund celebrates his goal for Napoli | IMAGO

"It’s the same thing with Rasmus, guys. You were so tough on Rasmus and he scored also, so let [us] notice of that.” 

Rashford had failed to score in his first four matches for Barcelona before his double at Newcastle United in the Champions League.

Marcus Rashford
Barcelona star Marcus Rashford scored a brace vs Newcastle in the UCL | IMAGO

Amorim also refused to indulge in speculation about Alejandro Garnacho, a former “bomb squad” player now at Chelsea. 

When pressed, the Portuguese coach insisted his only concern is winning matches.

Garnacho could start against Man United on Saturday | Credit: IMAGO

 “I don’t care who plays for the opponent … I’m just focused on winning the game. That is my only concern,” he told reporters.

What next for United?

United will play hosts to Chelsea later today at Old Trafford on matchday 5 in the Premier League.

Amorim will be under pressure as the Red Devils hope to secure maximum points at home, having won only once in their opening four matches of the season.