🚨 GOOD NEWS: Ruben Amorim Keeps Door Open for Højlund Stay at Man United — But Admits Sesko Will Be First Choice 🔴⚡
The Rasmus Højlund saga at Manchester United has taken a new twist, as manager Ruben Amorim has publicly confirmed that the Danish striker’s future at Old Trafford remains open — but also clarified that newly signed Benjamin Šeško is now the club’s first-choice center forward.
This development comes at a crucial juncture for United, who are undergoing a massive squad reshaping under Amorim’s leadership, with competition for places fiercer than ever. For Højlund, it means that while he is not being pushed out of the door, he will have to fight harder than ever before to secure his spot in the team.
Amorim’s Statement: A Balancing Act
Speaking ahead of United’s next Premier League fixture, Ruben Amorim delivered what can only be described as a carefully calculated message:
“Rasmus Højlund is still part of my plans. The door is not closed for him to stay here. But he also knows that Benjamin Šeško is our main striker moving forward.”
This statement was both reassuring and brutally honest. On one hand, Amorim emphasized that Højlund still has a place at Manchester United. On the other, he drew a clear line in the sand — Šeško, the Slovenian sensation, will be the leading man in his tactical setup.
It was a classic Amorim move: protect the confidence of a young player while simultaneously setting expectations about the club’s direction.
The Rise of Šeško
Benjamin Šeško’s arrival from RB Leipzig was one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer. At just 21 years old, Šeško has been dubbed “the next Erling Haaland” due to his physical frame, explosive pace, and lethal finishing ability.
United’s pursuit of Šeško was part of Amorim’s vision to rejuvenate the attack with a clinical striker capable of consistently delivering goals at the highest level. The manager clearly sees the Slovenian as a player around whom he can build the next generation of Manchester United’s frontline.
Šeško’s early performances in training and preseason reportedly impressed Amorim and his staff. His hold-up play, link-up ability, and calmness in front of goal have already set him apart. For a team that has often struggled to convert chances, Šeško represents hope for a more efficient, ruthless attacking unit.
Højlund’s Struggles
Rasmus Højlund’s first season at Manchester United was a rollercoaster. Signed from Atalanta in 2023 for a hefty fee, the Danish forward carried the weight of expectation on his shoulders. At just 20 years old, he was asked to lead the line for one of the biggest clubs in the world — a responsibility even seasoned strikers might have struggled with.
Højlund showed glimpses of his talent, particularly in the Champions League, where he netted five goals in six group stage matches. However, his Premier League form was inconsistent. Despite his tireless work rate and physical attributes, he often found himself isolated in games, lacking service and support.
Injuries and United’s disjointed attacking play under Erik ten Hag further complicated his adaptation. By the end of the campaign, questions arose about whether Højlund was ready to be Manchester United’s main striker.
Amorim’s Challenge: Keeping Højlund Motivated
The arrival of Šeško undoubtedly complicates Højlund’s role at the club. Yet Amorim’s decision to publicly “leave the door open” is crucial. The Portuguese manager is known for his man-management skills and his ability to develop young players.
By making it clear that Højlund still has a role, Amorim is sending the message that competition is part of the process. If the Dane rises to the challenge, he could still carve out an important role at Old Trafford — either as a second striker, rotational option, or even as a partner in a two-striker system on certain occasions.
Importantly, Amorim knows United cannot afford to lose depth in their squad. With the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and European competitions on the horizon, there will be plenty of opportunities for Højlund to prove himself.
Tactical Implications
Amorim’s tactical system is another factor in this situation. At Sporting Lisbon, the coach often deployed a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 formation, with a mobile striker leading the line supported by wide forwards and attacking midfielders. Šeško fits that mold perfectly: a tall, strong, and mobile striker who can finish chances and occupy defenders.
For Højlund, the question becomes whether he can adapt. He is similarly physical and hardworking, but his link-up play and decision-making still need refinement. If he can develop those aspects of his game, Amorim might consider rotating between the two strikers or even experimenting with dual-forward systems in select matches.
Imagine a front two of Højlund and Šeško, with Bruno Fernandes or Mason Mount supplying them — it could give United a new attacking dimension against tougher opposition.
Fan Reactions: Mixed but Hopeful
Unsurprisingly, United fans have reacted strongly to Amorim’s statement.
- Optimistic Fans view this as a positive sign of squad depth. Having both Šeško and Højlund provides flexibility, competition, and cover in case of injuries. For years, United have lacked quality depth in the striker position, and now they have two of Europe’s brightest young forwards.
- Concerned Fans, however, worry about Højlund’s confidence. Being publicly told he is not first choice could damage his morale, especially after an already challenging debut season. Some fear he might seek a move elsewhere if he feels undervalued.
Social media has been buzzing with debates, with many fans suggesting that a loan move for Højlund could benefit him, allowing him regular playing time while continuing his development. Others argue that keeping him close to Amorim’s coaching could accelerate his growth.
The Bigger Picture for United
The situation with Højlund and Šeško reflects a larger shift in Manchester United’s strategy. Under Amorim and the partial ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, the club appears to be building for the long term, targeting young, dynamic talents with high ceilings.
Instead of relying on short-term fixes, United are focusing on assembling a squad capable of competing for titles over the next decade. Having two promising strikers like Højlund and Šeško is a luxury most clubs envy.
This also highlights the ruthless reality of elite football: even expensive signings like Højlund are not guaranteed starting roles. The message is clear — only the best performers will play.
What Lies Ahead for Højlund
For Højlund, the next few months will be decisive. If he accepts the challenge, trains hard, and takes his chances when they come, he could still establish himself as a crucial part of United’s future. At just 21 years old, time is on his side.
Alternatively, if frustrations grow and opportunities remain limited, a loan move — either within the Premier League or abroad — could be on the table. Such a move would allow him to play regularly while keeping his long-term future at Old Trafford intact.
One thing is certain: Amorim’s honesty has set the tone. Højlund’s fate will ultimately be decided not in press conferences, but on the pitch.
Conclusion
Ruben Amorim’s declaration that Rasmus Højlund still has a place at Manchester United — but that Benjamin Šeško is the new first-choice striker — is both reassuring and challenging news for the young Dane.
For United, it represents the good kind of problem: two talented young strikers competing for one position. For Højlund, it is a test of resilience, professionalism, and growth. If he rises to the occasion, he could yet prove his doubters wrong and force his way back into Amorim’s strongest XI.
In football, nothing is permanent — form, injuries, and tactical shifts can change everything. For now, the door remains open. The rest is up to Højlund.
