Conte’s praise of Rasmus Hojlund underscores the striker’s Napoli renaissance; punters might back Hojlund to score anytime in upcoming Napoli matches or bet on the club to trigger his permanent transfer once clauses are met, given his form and Conte’s coaching influence.
Conte praises Hojlund as Napoli forward rediscovers form
Antonio Conte has lauded Rasmus Hojlund’s improvement since his move to Napoli, delivering a thinly veiled critique of how the young striker was managed at Manchester United. Conte said players like Hojlund need coaching to refine positioning, work-rate and decision-making — the very areas the 22-year-old has improved in since arriving on loan last September.
Loan to Napoli and immediate impact
Hojlund joined Napoli on loan with a conditional obligation to buy for around £38 million after being told he was not in the plans at Manchester United. Signed by United in 2023 for about £72 million, the Denmark international struggled in England, managing just four Premier League goals last season. At Napoli he has already registered nine goals and three assists this campaign and played a key role in Napoli’s Italian Super Cup success.
Italian Super Cup and key performances
Hojlund scored and assisted in the semi-final against AC Milan and contributed in the final victory over Bologna. His performances in the competition — plus consistent league form — have vindicated Napoli’s decision to bring him to the club and strengthened calls for the loan to be made permanent.
Permanent transfer prospects
Napoli have publicly signaled their intent to make Hojlund’s move permanent, with club officials describing completion of the deal as a formality once clauses are triggered. That would see Napoli convert the loan into a full transfer for the reported fee, securing a young forward who appears to be flourishing under Conte’s methods.
Player outlook and adaptation in Italy
Hojlund has spoken openly about his happiness in Naples and the rapid adaptation to life and football in Italy. He described the first brief but decisive conversation with Conte and emphasized the need for regular game time at his age. His commitment to improving — on goals, general play and even learning Italian — has been a recurring theme in recent interviews.
McTominay precedent and squad context
Scott McTominay made a similar move from Manchester United to Napoli in August 2024 and enjoyed immediate success, helping Napoli to a Serie A title and earning player of the season honours. McTominay’s smooth transition has provided a useful reference point for Hojlund’s own journey on the southern Italian coast.
Betting implications and market signals
Hojlund’s resurgence under Conte and Napoli’s clear desire to retain him should influence short-term markets: backing Hojlund to score in upcoming Napoli fixtures or to be involved in goal contributions is a viable angle while his confidence is high. Longer-term, markets on Napoli completing a permanent deal for Hojlund could shorten as the buy clause approaches activation.
Conclusion
Under Antonio Conte’s coaching, Rasmus Hojlund looks to have revived the potential that made him a high-profile signing. Napoli’s ambition to secure the striker permanently and his recent performances suggest both sporting and transfer developments that will be watched closely by supporters and bettors alike.
Serie A | Napoli 0-0 Parma: McTominay frustrated by tight offside
Hojlund, 22, joined Serie A giants Napoli on loan last September, with a conditional obligation to buy for around £38million, after being told he was not part of Amorim's plans at Man United.
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