Man Utd star requests manager to limit playing time due to injury concerns

Manchester United's rising talent, Rasmus Hojlund, has expressed to interim Denmark manager Lars Knudsen his preferences regarding playing time in the upcoming match against Spain. Hojlund has requested not to be given a full 90 minutes on the field.

That’s because the Red Devils striker is worried about suffering a fresh injury, given his recent hamstring problems which have limited his playing time.

Hojlund missed United’s first four Premier League games of the season due to injury and has only made five appearances across all competitions in 2024-25.

The 21-year-old is currently with the Danish team as they prepare for a Nations League battle with European champions Spain on Saturday.

Speaking ahead of that match, Hojlund said: ‘There is no point in rushing things and risking another injury.

‘My body feels good again. I might be ready to play 90 minutes, but if I also use my brain a little bit, I don’t think 90 minutes on Saturday against Spain is a good idea.’

Hojlund has established himself as an important player for his country, registering seven goals across 18 caps.

But it appears he wants to focus on getting himself fit for United, who are back in action on October 19 when Erik ten Hag’s side host Brentford at Old Trafford.

United have endured a tough start to the season, winning just two of their opening seven Premier League games

Ten Hag is under significant pressure and rumours have been circulating that the Red Devils manager could soon lose his job.

Meanwhile, it emerged on Thursday that United could have yet another injury concern with Lisandro Martinez reportedly carrying a knock.

United are already monitoring a number of injury concerns that have emerged during the international break. Martinez’s countryman Alejandro Garnacho pulled out of the Argentina squad on Monday due to a knee problem with Kobbie Mainoo also withdrawing from the England squad.

Amad Diallo is another to have returned to Manchester early, leaving the Ivory Coast camp on Wednesday.