Mon Oct 28 14:20:35 UTC 2024: ## Manchester United’s Joe Hugill Channels Van Nistelrooy in Quest to Become the Next Iconic No. 9

**Manchester, UK** – Manchester United academy graduate Joe Hugill is aiming high, drawing inspiration from legendary striker Ruud van Nistelrooy as he seeks to become the next iconic No. 9 at Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old forward, currently on loan at Wigan Athletic, has been under the guidance of some of United’s most celebrated strikers, including Van Nistelrooy, Erik ten Hag’s assistant coach, and former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Hugill, who joined United’s academy in 2020, believes his time with these experienced mentors has been invaluable in developing his striking skills.

Hugill’s potential was evident during pre-season when he scored a spectacular goal against Rangers, a strike he likened to one of Van Nistelrooy’s. “He’s just a bit before my time,” Hugill said of the Dutch coach. “We knew of him, how he was one of the best finishers in the Premier League. That’s what we were joking about when I scored against Rangers, saying that I was watching him the night before.”

Van Nistelrooy, impressed by Hugill’s goal, praised the young striker’s composure and movement. “He said how good the finish was, the movement to create the space for me, how composed I was, and I knew what I wanted to do straight away,” Hugill revealed.

Hugill also acknowledged the impact of Solskjaer, Carrick, and McKenna on his development. “I worked well with Ole, especially with him being a striker as well,” he said. “It helped me a lot.”

The young striker, who has already scored two goals in League One for Wigan, has clear ambitions. When asked about his goals for the season, Hugill replied: “Kick on as much as possible. To be United’s No. 9 is every young lad’s dream. I always back myself 100 per cent.”

With his talent, dedication, and the guidance of some of the best strikers in the game, Hugill is well on his way to fulfilling his dream and becoming a key player for Manchester United in the future.

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