This Sunday, Manchester United will kick off their 2025–26 Premier League campaign against Arsenal. In that context, they’ve made a striking call concerning Rasmus Hojlund, who has long been rumored as a potential signing for AC Milan, where he would link up with Christian Pulisic.
Shortly before the match against the Gunners at Old Trafford, head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed United’s starting lineup — and one detail immediately caught the attention of fans: Hojlund was not included in the starting XI or even on the bench, signaling how little of a role the coach appears to have in mind for him this season.
Amorim opted to use Mason Mount in a makeshift ‘false 9’ role, supported by Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. Meanwhile, Benjamin Sesko — United’s marquee summer signing — waits for his chance among the substitutes, wearing the No. 30 shirt. Joshua Zirkzee is another attacking option who could feature, but there is no sign of Hojlund.
The Danish striker had already been sidelined during preseason. In fact, in the final friendly before the start of official competitions — last week’s penalty shootout win over Fiorentina — Rasmus was on the bench and didn’t play a single minute, even though Manchester United had no other natural center-forward available.
Manchester United lineup vs Arsenal
For the 2025–26 Premier League opener, head coach Ruben Amorim selected the following starting XI: Altay Bayindir; Diogo Dalot, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu; Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes; Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Mason Mount.
Milan keeping a close eye on Hojlund
Rasmus Hojlund’s near-total absence at the start of the 2025–26 season with Manchester United only increases the chances of a transfer before the European window closes. This comes even as reports have suggested the player’s intention was to stay and fight for his place.
With a potential move looking increasingly likely, Hojlund is emerging as a top target for AC Milan. The Italian side are in the market for one or two top-tier center-forwards, and Rasmus is reportedly among the leading options alongside Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic. Adding firepower alongside Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao on the wings could give the Rossoneri a high-caliber attack heading into the new campaign.
According to reporter Matteo Moretto, the Italian side view Hojlund as a priority and plan to enter negotiations with Manchester United in the coming weeks. The main obstacle appears to be the structure of the deal: Milan are pushing for a loan with a purchase option, while United prefer to sell him outright.
