'I know what he went through at Man Utd' – Christian Eriksen 'incredibly happy' for Rasmus Hojlund after Denmark team-mate's 'great' start to life at Napoli

Former Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen is "incredibly happy" for Rasmus Hojlund after his Denmark team-mate's "great" start to life at Napoli. After a frustrating spell at Old Trafford where chances were few and confidence was crushed, Hojlund has exploded into form at Napoli. Four goals in six games, including crucial winners against Sporting and Genoa, have turned the 22-year-old into the talk of Naples.

Getty ImagesNightmare at Old Trafford

Just months ago, Hojlund’s career at United had reached a breaking point. The boyhood United fan dreamed of becoming Old Trafford’s next great striker, but the reality was far from the fantasy. Once United secured Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, Hojlund’s fate was sealed, dropped from the squad to face Arsenal and told bluntly that opportunities would be scarce. Despite his desire to stay and fight for his place, the decision had been made. A move was the only option, and when Napoli came calling, United didn’t hesitate to cut ties.

AdvertisementNapoli’s masterstroke: A striker reborn

For Napoli, it was a gamble worth taking. Hojlund arrived with bruised confidence but burning motivation, and under the bright lights of Serie A, he’s rediscovered his rhythm. At United, he was often isolated and starved of service, but with Napoli’s attacking tempo and creativity, he’s found a system that suits him perfectly.

GettyEriksen leads the praise

Christian Eriksen, who knows all about footballing ups and downs, has been one of Hojlund’s biggest supporters. Speaking ahead of Denmark’s upcoming fixtures, he praised the young striker’s determination to fight back after being written off in England. 

"I’m incredibly happy for 'Ralles'," he said. "I know what he went through at United, good and bad, but he’s always been strong mentally. He works incredibly hard and gives it his all, so it’s just great that he’s now scoring goals."

Denmark boss thrilled by Hojlund’s form

Denmark manager Brian Riemer couldn’t be happier with his striker’s resurgence. “Having adapted so quickly and having won matches twice in a row leading up to this national team meeting is an adventure that could hardly have been written better for Rasmus,” Riemer told .

"I am very happy to get a striker into top form. I couldn’t wish for more as the Danish national coach. When you come out on the back of a less successful stay, you hope that things will go well. Even though he has Kevin De Bruyne by his side, it is not that easy to meet those expectations. Or to get that start when you come to Napoli, who are Italian champions with sky-high expectations.”