Erik ten Hag told Van Nistelrooy will finally unleash Hojlund at Man United

Alan Shearer has revealed how Ruud van Nistelrooy can help the development of Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund.

The legendary Dutchmen is set to return to old Trafford for the 2024/25 season as part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff with Rene Hake also joining. Burnley wanted Van Nistelrooy to replace Vincent Kompany as their manager, however he has chosen to head back to Manchester.

From 219 appearances for United, across five seasons, Van Nistelrooy scored an incredible 150 goals and therefore he looks to be the perfect person to help Hojlund grow into the role.

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The Denmark international endured a mixed first season at the club after joining in a £72million deal from Atalanta. Despite criticisms, Hojlund still managed to score 16 goals with a stunning purple patch of form arriving mid-way through the campaign which showcased his undeniable ability.

It is still clear though, that the 21-year-old is not the finished article but not many are expecting him to be with just three seasons in senior football under his belt. With that in mind, Shearer has offered his take on how Hojlund will be helped by the addition of Van Nistelrooy.

Speaking to Betfair, he said: “That can only enhance and help Hojlund because Ruud van Nistelrooy has been there, he’s worn the shirt at Old Trafford. Hojlund working with him on the training ground is only going to improve him.

“In really difficult circumstances for Hojlund last season, I think there’s definitely something to work with there. It was around 16 goals he got in the end which is a decent return for how tough it had been for him and a lot of his teammates for most of the season.”