"He Looked Like a Boy playing Against a Man" – Rio Ferdinand Slams Manchester United star After Arsenal Defeat

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has raised concerns over Rasmus Højlund’s performance in United’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal on Wednesday, December 4. The Red Devils’ struggles at the Emirates Stadium continued, as they extended their winless streak at Arsenal’s home ground to seven years.

New manager Rúben Amorim is still in the early stages of his Manchester United tenure, and finding his ideal starting lineup remains a challenge. Amorim included Højlund, who recently scored a brace in the Europa League against Bodo Glimt, in the starting XI. However, the Danish striker was unable to make an impact, as Arsenal’s defense, led by the commanding William Saliba, neutralized his threat.

Speaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents show, Ferdinand did not hold back in his criticism of Højlund’s performance. He highlighted the Danish forward’s inability to handle the physical presence of Saliba, comparing him unfavorably to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland when facing tough defenders.

“Saliba looks imposing,” Ferdinand remarked. “Rasmus Højlund is probably still trying to fight his way out of Saliba’s pocket right now – it was like a man against a boy yesterday. I want to see Rasmus Højlund improve in those situations, in those one-v-ones. I’m saying it about Højlund, but I could say the same thing about Haaland.”

Højlund failed to register a shot on target, make any key passes, or complete a dribble during the game. The £64 million summer signing from Atalanta has scored just four goals this season, raising concerns about his form and future place in Amorim’s starting XI.

The match was decided by Arsenal’s ability to capitalize on set pieces. After a tight first half, Arsenal broke the deadlock in the second half with two well-executed goals from corners. The defeat highlighted Manchester United’s ongoing struggles with defensive organization and their inability to create meaningful chances in attack.

For Amorim, the loss shows the work needed to shape Manchester United into a consistent team. While Højlund showed potential earlier in the season, performances like this one leave questions about his ability to deliver in important games.

As Manchester United prepares for upcoming fixtures, Amorim must address the team’s lack of creativity and strengthen their defense to prevent further setbacks. Højlund, meanwhile, will need to prove himself capable of rising to the challenge against tougher opponents if he wants to secure his place in the starting lineup.

This defeat serves as a reminder that Manchester United still has a long way to go under Amorim’s leadership, with big improvements needed in both attack and defense.