Hojlund's journey from dreaming about Manchester United to falling out with them! He reveals details about his departure, and the Red Devils' financial loss is disclosed.

Following Napoli's Italian Super Cup victory, 22-year-old Rasmus Hojlund shared a social media post that subtly criticized Manchester United, signaling a total split from his old team. Beneath his trophy photo, Hojlund commented, "This is what a great decision looks like."

The great decision involved departing from Manchester United—the club he had long aspired to represent—and moving back to Italy to sign with Napoli. Last season, Hojlund scored only 4 goals in the Premier League, but in less than half a season in Serie A, he has already netted 6 goals, ranking joint third in the top scorers list and showing signs of a fresh start.

In an interview with Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport, Hojlund revealed that Manchester United made it clear he was surplus to requirements, making the transfer to Napoli an easy decision.

He said, "Manchester United clearly told me I was not part of their plans this season. This was a good opportunity for both me and Napoli. I wanted to put on the sky-blue jersey immediately. After talking with Mannah (Napoli's sporting director) and then Conte, I understood what this challenge meant for me."

According to him, Conte offered a very appealing plan. Hojlund explained, "My first conversation with Conte was brief but very clear. We both agreed that moving to Napoli was the right choice for me. When a coach like him calls, you can only say yes. Considering my age, I've played many games; I don't see myself as highly experienced, but I've definitely gained a lot of experience."

Former teammate McTominay also helped Hojlund decide to end his "Red Devils dream." The 28-year-old Scottish midfielder grew up in Manchester United's youth system but after joining Napoli last season, not only won his first league title but was also named Serie A's best player of the season.

Hojlund only played alongside McTominay at Manchester United for one year but knows his teammate well. "We're at different stages in our careers. I still have a lot to learn; Scott (McTominay) has more experience. I'm young and need playing time. Moving to Napoli is a fantastic opportunity for me," Hojlund said. "I like to set high standards. If you become complacent, it's easy to slack off. I've been working hard to improve: scoring goals, skills, personal growth, even relearning Italian."

According to the loan agreement between Manchester United and Napoli, if the Serie A defending champions qualify for the Champions League this season, they are obligated to purchase Hojlund permanently. Currently, after 16 rounds, Napoli sits third in the standings, just 2 points behind leaders Inter Milan.

Italian legend Vieri recently praised Hojlund, naming him one of the top five strikers in European football this season. This might add some ridicule towards Manchester United, as another Italian icon, Zola, said Hojlund's situation is driving "everyone at Manchester United crazy."

From a financial perspective, if Hojlund performs well, Napoli will provide Manchester United with a better economic return. Including the €6 million loan fee and the €44 million buyout clause, the total reaches €50 million!

Manchester United signed Hojlund from Atalanta in 2023 for a total of €85 million, but the guaranteed amount was €75 million, with €10 million in variable fees unpaid. This means if the Red Devils successfully sell the "freight train," they will face a loss of €25 million.

Undoubtedly, Hojlund, who once dreamed of playing for the Red Devils, no longer considers returning. He clearly stated his intention to settle in Italy: "Adapting to a new culture is crucial, especially in Italy where language is very important. Now I can understand almost everything, but speaking the Neapolitan dialect is a whole different matter!"