Rasmus Hojlund has revealed he plans on staying at Napoli after joining the Serie A champions from Manchester United in an initial loan transfer. After ending an unsuccessful period at Old Trafford at the end of the summer transfer window, the Danish striker is off to a strong start on his return to Italy and is feeling comfortable in Antonio Conte's side.
Hojlund moved on from United?
Hojlund initially declared his desire to stay and fight for his place under Ruben Amorim as rumours of a return to Serie A gained traction, with AC Milan making an attempt to lure him to San Siro. He rejected that deal, but finally gave into the pressure as Napoli came calling, making a transfer on loan with a conditional obligation to buy him for €44 million (£38m/$51m) at the end of the season. The 22-year-old seems set on triggering that clause as he declared his intention to .
AdvertisementGetty ImagesHojlund on his long-term future and globetrotting career
"I also played in Austria before, after leaving Denmark as a child. At 22, I already have a lot of experience under my belt. But now I'm in Naples and I plan to stay," he said.
Asked about Milan's summer interest, he said: "All I know is that I'm happy where I am: here in Naples."
'We are all waiting for Lukaku's return'
Hojlund also clarified his role within the team, expressing excitement at the prospect of playing with and learning from the club's established number nine, Lukaku, who is currently sidelined. Rather than seeing himself as a replacement, the Dane is keen to absorb knowledge from the Belgian.
"It's not just me [replacing Lukaku]; Napoli also has other good strikers like [Lorenzo] Lucca and [Giuseppe] Ambrosino," he said. "And we're eagerly awaiting Lukaku's return; we all have a lot to learn from him."
Getty SportWhat next for Hojlund and Napoli?
Having settled quickly under Antonio Conte, Hojlund's immediate focus is on helping Napoli continue their perfect start to the season, which has seen them win their opening four league matches. A significant test awaits on Sunday as they travel to San Siro to face AC Milan. Hojlund, who has also featured in the Champions League for his new club, is focused on contributing to the team's success.
"I hope to score lots of goals and assists to help my teammates," he said. "We need to constantly improve, but stay focused on one game at a time."