‘Man United Is the Problem’: Højlund Flourishes in Italy and on the International Stage as Fans Mock Old Trafford Woes

Rasmus Højlund’s resurgence since leaving Manchester United has become one of the most talked-about stories in European football. The Danish striker found the net once again on Sunday night, scoring Denmark’s winner in their 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Greece at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen — his fourth goal in as many qualifiers.

Since his summer switch to Serie A champions Napoli, the 22-year-old has rediscovered the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising young forwards. Under Antonio Conte, he has scored four goals in six appearances across all competitions, rekindling the confidence that seemed to desert him at Old Trafford.

Højlund joined United from Atalanta in 2023 amid high expectations, but in 62 Premier League matches managed just 14 goals. His loan move to Napoli, which becomes permanent should the Italian giants qualify for next season’s Champions League, has already been hailed as career-defining.
Reuniting with former teammate Scott McTominay, the Dane looks sharper, fitter, and tactically freer in a Napoli side that currently sits top of Serie A with five wins from six.

Social media has been quick to react. Fans joked that “Manchester United is a virus,” sharing memes comparing Højlund to Ronaldo Nazário in his prime. Others pointed out that the problem was never the player but United’s broken structure. “Højlund is actually very good — the problem was Manchester United players,” one fan wrote. Even United supporters took solace in the striker’s rise, noting that Napoli’s expected €50 million purchase option could help finance another rebuild at Old Trafford.

Denmark coach Brian Riemer also appeared to take a veiled swipe at United’s system, suggesting Højlund’s success is down to being in a cohesive side: “He now plays in a team that takes pride in creating chances for others. That matters more than the league itself,” he told The Metro.

Højlund himself has credited consistency and preparation for his turnaround: “Not much has changed except being part of a good football team. I worked hard during the break to be ready — and I feel sharp again.”

With Denmark cruising through their qualifiers and Napoli flying high domestically, Højlund’s revival has become symbolic of what can happen when raw talent meets the right environment. As he prepares for Napoli’s next league clash against Torino on October 18, the once-frustrated United striker now looks like a player reborn.

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