Rasmus Hojlund is facing an absence of approximately three weeks due to a muscular injury, raising doubts about his availability for the upcoming Manchester derby next month.

The 21-year-old striker’s injury sidelines him from Manchester United’s imminent fixtures, including the Premier League encounter against Fulham this Saturday and the FA Cup fifth-round match against Nottingham Forest next Wednesday. 

Moreover, Hojlund is unlikely to recover in time for the clash with Manchester City on March 3. He faces a tight race to regain fitness for subsequent league games against Everton on March 9 and Sheffield United on March 16.

Hojlund’s injury is a setback amid his impressive form, having scored seven goals in his last six Premier League appearances. Manager Erik ten Hag described it as a minor injury resulting from high-intensity training, necessitating a recovery period of two to three weeks.

Hojlund’s absence compounds United’s injury concerns, with Luke Shaw, Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, Anthony Martial, Tyrell Malacia, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka also sidelined. Ten Hag acknowledged the challenge but expressed confidence in the squad’s depth compared to earlier in the season.

In Hojlund’s absence, Marcus Rashford is expected to lead the attacking line, although his goal-scoring form has been limited this season. Meanwhile, midfielder Scott McTominay emerges as the club’s second-highest scorer behind Hojlund.

Hojlund, who joined United from Atalanta for a substantial fee in July, has made 30 appearances across all competitions. His recent goal-scoring streak has been pivotal in United’s recent winning run, which has seen them triumph in five consecutive matches.

The timing of Hojlund’s injury is unfortunate, considering his resurgence and United’s momentum. With his return unlikely before the Manchester derby, United must adapt without a recognized senior center-forward, especially with Martial still recovering from groin surgery. The club hopes that Hojlund’s absence won’t disrupt the team’s positive momentum and confidence.