Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has voiced his concerns regarding the pressure placed on 19-year-old striker Rasmus Højlund. Højlund, who was recently brought into the club, has been thrust into the iconic No.9 role at Old Trafford, a position that carries immense responsibility and historical significance.
The Need for Experience
Scholes, known for his no-nonsense approach to the game, believes that Manchester United may have made a misstep in placing such high expectations on the young Danish forward. According to Scholes, Højlund should have been brought in as a second, third, or even fourth-choice striker, allowing him time to develop without the immediate pressure of leading the line for one of the world’s biggest clubs.
Instead of relying on Højlund, Scholes suggests that the club should have prioritized signing a more experienced striker to handle the demands of the Premier League and guide the younger players. He specifically mentions Joshua Zirkzee, another young forward, who was also brought into the squad, but Scholes openly admits that he has never seen him play.
Scholes’ Honest Admission
In a candid moment, Scholes acknowledged his unfamiliarity with some of the players United has brought in, including Zirkzee. “I’ll be honest, I’ve NEVER seen him play,” Scholes confessed during an appearance on WeAreTheOverlap, highlighting the potential risks of relying on unproven talent in such a critical role.
Paul Scholes’ concerns about Rasmus Højlund’s role at Manchester United reflect a broader issue within the club’s current strategy. While Højlund undoubtedly has talent, the pressure of being Manchester United’s No.9 at just 19 years old could prove overwhelming. Scholes’ call for more experienced reinforcements suggests that the club’s success may hinge on balancing youth with experience, rather than placing all their hopes on young, untested players. Only time will tell if Højlund can rise to the challenge or if United will need to reconsider their approach in the transfer market.