“Of all the terrible performances in the match, his performance was the worst. Fair play to Amad for winning the game” – Paul Scholes has singled out a Manchester United player he feels has underperformed, labeling his contributions as “disappointing.” Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy echoed Scholes’ sentiments, aligning in his assessment of the player’s lackluster performances this season.

Rasmus Hojlund faced criticism for a subdued performance in Manchester United’s Europa League win over PAOK. Despite the Red Devils securing their first European victory in 380 days with two goals from Amad, the win was less than convincing.

Amad opened the scoring with a header from a Bruno Fernandes cross early in the second half and later doubled his tally after reclaiming possession and curling in a shot with a slight deflection.

While Amad impressed, the rest of the United squad lacked inspiration. Hojlund, positioned between Amad and Alejandro Garnacho with Fernandes behind him, struggled with only ten touches in a quiet first half. Former United midfielder Paul Scholes praised Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte’s partnership, which provided Fernandes more freedom, but he criticized Hojlund’s inability to challenge the PAOK defense, just days before new manager Ruben Amorim’s arrival.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Scholes remarked, “There was a spell after United’s goal where PAOK looked dangerous, but it was mostly well-controlled. I was a bit disappointed in Hojlund. I think he’ll improve with a coach who believes in him.”

Scholes, joined by former teammate and current interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy, highlighted the need for Hojlund to build a partnership with Fernandes in the No. 10 role

. Scholes noted, “Partnerships are crucial. It was a tough night for him, and while we saw glimpses of his potential, it didn’t connect as often as we needed.” Van Nistelrooy added, “In the second half, we improved in positioning, but the crosses didn’t quite align with his runs.”

Hojlund, who has only two goals in 11 games this season following an early hamstring injury, was replaced by Joshua Zirkzee towards the match’s end, with Zirkzee also unable to score since his goal on opening day against Fulham.

Reflecting on the win via Instagram, Hojlund humbly thanked fans, saying, “No witty caption tonight. Just wanna thank you guys for those chants. Never gets old, absolutely love it. Congrats @amaddiallo19, you deserved it.”