Napoli: How did Conte resurrect Rasmus Højlund?

15/10/2025 07:44:00 PANDATV

Rasmus Hojlund has never been this "on fire." Scoring 7 goals in 9 matches marks the best season start ever for the 22-year-old striker.

He is genuinely being revived at Napoli, and behind this impressive transformation stands the familiar figure of the "golden hand" Antonio Conte.

Conte or the Midas King? He came to Old Trafford at Manchester United, picked up surplus players, and immediately turned them into gold. Romelu Lukaku and Scott McTominay became stars thanks to Conte’s touch, and now it’s Hojlund’s turn. But while Lukaku needed Conte to regain his status as a top striker instead of being mocked, Hojlund needs Conte to return to the development path he strayed from during two years at Manchester. "Hojlund must work hard to become a 'crack' (superstar), and he is on the right track," Conte has often affirmed.

This coach did not try to make Hojlund into a second Lukaku. Instead, he protected, adjusted, and pushed the Danish striker to bring out his best qualities. Conte demanded Hojlund be "more ruthless in front of goal," and the results speak volumes. Seven goals in nine matches for club and country within about a month is undeniable proof of this striker’s talent. He no longer runs aimlessly like at Old Trafford but moves intelligently, coordinating smoothly with De Bruyne and McTominay to create a formidable attacking triangle.

Hojlund is both a source of joy and concern for Napoli.

The change is not only on the field. The atmosphere at Napoli seems to act as a mental tonic. Funny social media videos comparing the tense looks of the trio of "former Red Devils" in England with their relaxed, radiant appearances in Italy may be a joke, but they reflect a truth: Hojlund is playing with a completely freed mindset. He has regained the smile, happiness, and confidence lost during his tough time at Manchester United.

As Napoli is about to enter a brutal "marathon" of 7 matches in just 22 days, including the big clash with Inter Milan and crucial Champions League fixtures, Hojlund’s devastating form is the biggest motivation and strongest support for the team. He is no longer a "potential" but has become a guarantee, a true goal-scoring machine.

However, this joy comes with considerable worry. Playing continuously every three days carries injury risks, especially for a player with Hojlund’s physical style. If he unfortunately gets injured, with Lukaku still not back and Lorenzo Lucca only a secondary choice, it would be a disaster. Napoli has been heavily affected by injuries this season across all lines—from forwards, midfielders, to goalkeepers. Keeping the Danish "gem" healthy and strong will be Conte’s most important challenge in the harsh times ahead.

V.N

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