‘Consistency Is Important’ – Paul Scholes Questions Why Rasmus Højlund Was Left Out of Manchester United Lineup

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes shared his frustration over Rasmus Hojlund’s exclusion from Manchester United’s starting lineup in their Europa League match against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce. Despite previously expressing his doubts about the young striker’s potential to solve the Red Devils’ scoring issues, Scholes recently showed signs of faith in Hojlund’s impact in games. His absence from the lineup has left Scholes questioning Erik ten Hag’s rotation strategy.

The young forward has struggled to find consistency this season, mainly due to early-season injuries that he suffered. However, Hojlund showed fans a glimpse of his potential last weekend, scoring his second goal of the season in the victory over Brentford. As United prepared ahead for the Europa League match, hopes were that Hojlund would be given a chance to build on this recent performance. Instead, ten Hag decided to rest him, choosing Joshua Zirkzee to lead the line.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Scholes said, “Zirkzee comes in for Hojlund, and I am with Owen [Hargreaves]; I was really impressed with Hojlund, especially over the last couple of weeks. I think he is becoming a real threat, a real center-forward showing real quality in that game on Saturday with a brilliant goal. So, to be leaving him out of this game is disappointing, and it’s hard to see where the goals are going to come from.”

Scholes’ position on Hojlund was a change from his earlier worries about whether Rasmus Højlund could be the dependable goal scorer United desperately needs.
Speaking about Manchester United’s front line this season, Scholes stated, “In forward areas especially, I just don’t think the quality is there… We look at the most successful teams; they’re capable of scoring goals. We’ve scored five goals in seven games. Now, we had three or four forwards who could get you 20 goals, so you’re looking at 80 goals a season there, and I just don’t see that in the forward line at Manchester United. Look, Hojlund does alright, but is he going to score you 20 goals? I don’t think so.”

According to Scholes, Højlund brings a fresh energy and physicality that Manchester United could benefit from, especially in attack. He suggested that leaving the young forward out of important games may affect his rhythm and connection with his teammates. “For a young striker like Rasmus, consistency is important,” Scholes observed. “He needs time on the pitch to build confidence and understand the players around him.”

Scholes also pointed out that Højlund’s skills would help United with their attacks, which have been a regular problem. He added that Ten Hag must have faith in the abilities of young players like Højlund, who have shown potential but need consistent playing time to develop to their full potential.