“Why can’t I score?” – Rasmus Højlund opens up on Manchester United struggles

Rasmus Højlund is not brushing off his goal drought at Manchester United — in fact, he's asking the same question fans are: “Why can’t I score?”

The 22-year-old striker has netted just eight goals this season, and as United's only true No. 9, the weight of expectations has fallen heavily on his shoulders.

Last year, Højlund scored 16 goals across all competitions. The hope was that he would take another step forward — especially with the club bringing in a new manager. But after Erik ten Hag’s departure and the arrival of Ruben Amorim, the adjustment period has brought new challenges for the young Dane.

Højlund reflects on 21-game goal drought
Speaking in an interview with Disney+ Denmark, who hold Europa League broadcasting rights in the country, Højlund gave a brutally honest reflection of his recent form. His comments were published via Ekstra Bladet ahead of United's Europa League clash with Lyon.

“It was a vicious circle. We didn’t play that well as a team, and it also affected me,” he said.
“But I’m not the type to lie down and give up. That’s also why I played and started in those games. It’s because I’ve continued to work — for the team and on my own game."
The Danish international went on to explain just how deeply the lack of goals has affected him.
“I don’t just sit down and say: ‘It’s great that I haven’t scored in 21 games.’
“I sit down and look at my game, trying to figure out what I can do better.
“I also stand there and think: ‘Why the hell can’t I score?’ Where is it going wrong?’”

Momentum building again after breakthrough goals
After that long drought, Højlund has recently started to turn the corner. He scored in Manchester United’s match against Leicester City, and also found the net for Denmark in their victory over Portugal.
With a huge Europa League fixture against Lyon on the horizon, this could be the perfect moment for Højlund to rediscover his scoring touch — and reignite belief in his long-term role at Old Trafford.

Højlund’s journey just beginning
Still only 22, Rasmus Højlund is navigating the pressures of leading the line for one of the world’s biggest clubs during a time of transition. With a new system under Amorim, and signs of his confidence slowly returning, the best could still be yet to come.