Full Name: Rasmus Winther Højlund
Date of Birth: 4 February 2003
Place of Birth: Copenhagen, Denmark
Height: 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in)
Position(s): Striker / Forward
Current Team: Manchester United
Jersey Number: 9
From the bustling streets of Copenhagen to the grand stadiums in Europe, Rasmus Højlund's story represents a seismic shift in the football landscape, especially now that he dons the Manchester United red shirt. But the fact is behind every triumph on the pitch lies a foundation of family, heritage, and early beginnings.
Below are Rasmus Hojland's Facts, Family and Career Story from Childhood
Parents, Family, and Heritage
At the core of Rasmus Højlund's journey are the values instilled by his supportive family. Rasmus has always been surrounded by the love and encouragement of his parents, Anna and Lars Højlund.
Rasmus Højlund's mother, Anna, a former athlete turned military personnel, and father, Lars, with a background in amateur football and construction, nurtured his passion for football. Notably, Rasmus shares his football journey with his younger twin brothers Emil and Oscar, who ply their trade at Copenhagen FC. Hojlund’s unwavering family support and guidance since childhood laid the groundwork for Rasmus's future success, shaping his character and determination.
Early Years and Football Genesis
Born on 4 February 2003, Rasmus displayed an innate talent and passion for football from childhood. Growing up in Hørsholm in the Capital Region of Denmark, he spent countless hours honing his skills on the streets and fields of his hometown. This is where Højlund's football journey commenced, donning the jerseys of local clubs Horsholm-Usserod Idraetsforening and Brøndby as he embarked on his quest to fulfil his dreams on the pitch.
The Copenhagen Chronicles
At just 17 years old, Rasmus Højluleaptped into professional football, making his debut for Copenhagen in October 2020. With his exceptional speed, technique, and footballing intelligence, he quickly made an impression, establishing himself as a rising star in Danish football. The 2021–22 season proved to be a breakthrough year for Rasmus, as he played a pivotal role in guiding Copenhagen to glory in the Superligaen and making his mark on the European stage in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Sturm Graz Sojourn: A Tale of Triumph
In January 2022, Rasmus Højlund ventured beyond Danish shores, joining Austrian Bundesliga side Sturm Graz. His time at Sturm Graz was nothing short of spectacular, as he showcased his predatory instincts and goal-scoring prowess, leaving his mark on the club's history with 12 goals in 21 appearances.
Atalanta Awakening: From Promise to Powerhouse
The summer of 2022 marked a significant turning point in Rasmus Højlund's career, as he secured a lucrative transfer to Serie A giants Atalanta. The move that cost the Italian club less than £15m, catapulted the Dane onto the global stage, where he wasted no time in making his presence felt. From his debut goal against Monza to a stunning four-goal spree in January 2023, Rasmus's time at Atalanta underscored his talent and potential as one of Europe's most exciting prospects.
Manchester United Marvel: A Red Devil in the Making
Rasmus Højlund's journey reached new heights when he signed for Manchester United in a blockbuster deal worth £72 million. He had interest from Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain but chose to move to Old Trafford on a five-year deal after scoring 10 goals in 34 appearances for Atalanta in the 2022-23 season.
Donning the iconic red jersey, previously worn by legends such as Bobby Charlton, Eric Cantona, Paul Scholes, and many more, he embraced the challenge of representing one of English football’s most storied clubs. Hojlund expressed his lifelong dream of playing for Man United, saying: "It is no secret I have been a fan of this great club since I was a small boy."
However, just as he was about to embark on this new chapter of his career, he faced the challenge of recovering from a debilitating back injury [he picked up at Atalanta] that sidelined him for the preseason and forced him to miss the beginning of the 2023-24 Premier League season. Despite this setback, Rasmus remained determined to overcome his injury and make an impact on the pitch for his new club.
Højlund eventually debuted on 3 September 2023 as a substitute during Man United's 3–1 Premier League loss to Arsenal. With each performance, Rasmus endears himself to the Old Trafford faithful, showcasing his versatility and goal-scoring ability on the grandest stage.
Rasmus Højlund's Agent Selection
In a world characterised by a scarcity of trust, every successful footballer relies on a trusted agent. For Rasmus Højlund, Dutch super-agent Kees Vos filled that vital role. Together with his family, they conducted six meticulous interviews with potential representatives before entrusting Kees with brokering Rasmus's monumental move to Manchester United. This underscores the importance of prudent decision-making and professional guidance in the football industry.
International Acclaim: A Dane Amongst Titans
Rasmus Højlund played at almost every level of Denmark's youth setup before transitioning into the Denmark senior team at age 17. His impact extends beyond club football, as he has consistently delivered standout performances for the Danish national team.
From his senior debut in September 2022 to his memorable hat-trick against Finland in UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying, he has emerged as a beacon of hope for Danish football, representing his country with pride and distinction on the international stage. He scored six goals in six games in qualifying for Euro 2024.
More Højlund Facts
Youngest Player to Score in 4 Consecutive PL Games
On his 21st birthday, Rasmus Højlund achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the youngest player in Manchester United's history to score in four consecutive Premier League appearances. He marked this milestone by opening the scoring with his right foot in the Red Devils' impressive 3-0 victory over West Ham United, while Alejandro Garnarcho scored a double.
Second Youngest Player to Score in 5 Consecutive Premier League Games
In the match between Manchester United and Aston Villa at Villa Park on February 11, 2024, Rasmus Højlund became the second youngest player in Premier League history to score in five consecutive games. This accomplishment places him behind Nicolas Anelka, who achieved the feat during his tenure at Arsenal in November 1998 at 19 years and 239 days.
![Youngest Players To Score In 6 Successive Appearances [Sky Sports Screen Shot]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/70fb8e_731cef2b723342cebac47dfe244a545c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_429,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/70fb8e_731cef2b723342cebac47dfe244a545c~mv2.jpg)
Record-breaking Performance Against Luton Town FC
Rasmus Højlund's performance in the Premier League match between Manchester United and Luton Town FC at Kenilworth Road on February 19, 2024, was outstanding. In that single match:
He became the youngest player to score in six consecutive Premier League appearances, surpassing Joe Willock's previous record.
Hojlund also scored the quickest Premier League away goal for Manchester United, finding the net just 37 seconds into the match.
Additionally, Hojlund's goal helped Man United achieve their fastest-ever 2-0 lead in an away Premier League match, as he scored in the 7th minute.
Rasmus Hojlund's 10th Premier League Goal
On the last day of the 2023-24 Premier League season, Hojlund scored his 10th goal for Manchester United against Brighton, ending the campaign as the youngest player to reach double figures in goals at 21 years and 105 days old.
He is Known For His Philanthropic Efforts
Beyond his on-field achievements, Rasmus Højlund is known for his philanthropic efforts off the pitch. He actively supports various charitable initiatives, including youth development programs and initiatives that empower underprivileged communities. Furthermore, Rasmus is an avid reader who enjoys exploring different cultures and cuisines in his free time.
Legacy in the Making: The Rasmus Højlund Phenomenon
As Rasmus Højlund celebrates his 21st birthday, his meteoric rise to stardom at Manchester United is a journey that is inspiring aspiring athletes around the globe and is only just beginning... promising to perpetuate the enduring flame of inspiration in the hearts of those who follow his path.
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