Rasmus Hojlund declared himself the “happiest man alive” after breaking his Premier League duck to help Manchester United beat Aston Villa 3-2.

Hojlund, who cost Atalanta £64 million in the summer, scored in the 82nd minute in his 15th appearance in the Premier League.

Villa were on course to tie Liverpool at the top of the table after first-half goals from John McGinn and Leander Dendoncker, but Alejandro Garnacho’s double brought the hosts level.

Hojlund’s decisive goal, which came after five goals in the Champions League, relieved pressure on manager Erik ten Hag as United won their first match since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s investment was confirmed.

“It’s been a while, but I’m happy,” the Danish international, 20, told Amazon Prime.

“I’m the happiest man alive right now, as evidenced by the celebrations.” We believe until the finish, and we demonstrated a lot of character today.”

United had gone four games without scoring in all competitions and appeared about to extend their winless streak to five before the remarkable reversal.

Hojlund expects to add to his league total after finally finding the back of the goal.

“I’ve scored a couple in the Champions League but of course it’s been a while in the Premier League,” he added.

“I’m happy to get the first one and now hopefully I can keep going.”

In the dying minutes of the game and at full-time, the Stretford End sang the names of both of United’s goal scorers.

Argentina forward Garnacho believes the performance has answered some of the critics.

“I’m overjoyed – and so is Rasmus,” the 19-year-old added. “Too many people criticize Manchester United’s strikers, claiming that we never score goals.”

“It’s one of the best days of my life.”

United moved up to sixth place as a result of the victory, while Villa remained third after missing a golden opportunity.

“I’m so happy that the strikers scored – that’s exactly what we needed,” remarked manager Ten Hag.

“I know we’re capable; they’re good at finishing.”

“(Marcus) Rashford, Garnacho, and Hojlund are all excellent finishers, and we have more.” They also have to present it at every game.”

“I said before the game, we are competitive with Arsenal, we are competitive with Liverpool,” the Dutchman added. Believe that if we play our best, we can beat anyone.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re 2-0 down; keep going, show character, and I think we did today.”

“We have the personalities to do it and today was a very good team performance.”