Rasmus Hojlund's former coach makes Nicklas Bendtner claim when asked about Man United striker
Rasmus Hojlund is being tipped for big things following his summer move to Manchester United from Atalanta.
One of Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund's former coaches has claimed that Nicklas Bendtner had more natural talent than his fellow compatriot.
Hojlund, who will be targeting his first start in United colours when Brighton & Hove Albion visit Old Trafford on Saturday, joined the club from Italian outfit Atalanta last month. He joined the Reds on a long-term deal in a move that could be worth up to £72million.
The striker, who arrived at Old Trafford nursing an injury, has developed at a rapid rate over the past 20 months, so much so that United are his fourth club since January 2022. He joined Atalanta from Sturm Graz in August 2022 and plundered 10 goals last term.
Widely considered one of the most promising strikers in European football, the Dane, not least because of his price tag, is going to be expected to deliver the goods in United colours. But even though former youth coach Christian Mouroux, who worked with Hojlund from the age of 12 and then followed him to Brondby as a coach, is backing the youngster's hard work and determination to make him a success, he believes Bendtner, who retired just over two years ago, was a better player.
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"A good comparison can be made to the other rising superstar we had in Nicklas Bendtner," Mouroux told The Sun. "They are both No.9s, both very physical and have this twinkle in the eye. They are humorous, outgoing and cheeky.
"Bendtner was probably a more naturally gifted footballer but that perhaps made him take things more lightly and get influenced by everything that affects you from the outside when you become a superstar.
"Rasmus is completely different. Although I'm sure he will probably buy a bigger car and has a nice watch, it will not blow out of proportion. He has the right mentality for it.
"He is so disciplined. He is very aware of what hard work does for you and it's hard work that has brought him to where he is today."
Hojlund made his United debut prior to the recent international break, stepping off the bench in the 3-1 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. He looked bright and confident during his cameo role, offering United supporters a flavour of what to expect from him.