The scouting reports ultimately won the day, a decision that steered Manchester United away from a player who had recently electrified the World Cup stage. Before arriving at Tottenham, Randal Kolo Muani was the prime target for Erik ten Hag, a dynamic striker envisioned to spearhead a thrilling new attack.
Ten Hag had specifically requested a player profile that would complement the existing talents of Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Garnacho. Kolo Muani, fresh off a dominant performance with France in Qatar, perfectly fit the bill – possessing pace, power, and a proven ability to find the back of the net. He represented an immediate impact, a seasoned presence to elevate the young squad.
However, the club’s scouting department had a different vision. They championed Rasmus Hojlund, a younger prospect with perceived long-term value. The argument centered on potential and future resale worth, ultimately outweighing the manager’s preference for a player ready to contribute immediately.
A substantial £72 million was then invested in Hojlund, a gamble on potential that didn’t immediately pay off. While Hojlund initially showed promise with 16 goals in his first season, a subsequent downturn in form led to his departure to Napoli. The club missed out on Kolo Muani, who later joined PSG before a loan spell at Tottenham – a move that hasn’t yet ignited his career.
The situation sparked reflection on what could have been. The possibility of a dynamic partnership between Hojlund and Benjamin Sesko, the player brought in to replace him, was considered. Both young, both needing adaptation to the Premier League, they could have mirrored the legendary strike forces of United’s past – the Cole-Yorke and Sheringham-Solskjaer pairings.
Ultimately, players seek consistent playing time. Hojlund’s desire for regular football led to his move, and he’s now thriving, gaining valuable experience and rediscovering his scoring touch. There remains a possibility of a future return, a chance for him and Sesko to finally forge the partnership envisioned.
Sesko himself is beginning to find his feet, scoring goals and adapting to the demands of the Premier League. Should he continue to progress, Manchester United could find themselves with a potent attacking force, built on youth and potential – a testament to the long game, even if it meant initially bypassing a player who once seemed destined for Old Trafford.
