Like the majority of Manchester United fans, Christian Eriksen presumably entered the summer transfer window expecting that he’d depart Old Trafford for good.
Yet, the experienced Dane remains at Erik ten Hag’s disposal for the season ahead and was even awarded a rare start last time out against Southampton, which saw him replace Casemiro in the starting 11.
Barring a cagey first half-hour alongside young Kobbie Mainoo, Eriksen repaid his manager’s faith with a relatively successful showing. He featured for 73 minutes in total before making way for debutant Manuel Ugarte, while he’d made just a four-minute cameo vs Liverpool prior to the international break and hadn’t been utilised in United’s opening two matches.
Nonetheless, the 32-year-old will be well aware that his game time will fluctuate across the course of the campaign. Mainoo has cemented his place in the side, and Ugarte is poised to do the same when he gets more minutes under his belt. As for Casemiro, his place in Ten Hag’s plans is up in the air.
Eriksen almost completed Belgium switch
Remarkably, one club’s director has spoken out to reveal that they were pursuing a move for Eriksen in recent months.
Anderlecht’s Jesper Fredberg told Voetbal Nieuws: “Eriksen was an absolute opportunity, which turned out not to be feasible.”
The former Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan man – labelled a ‘creative spark’ by StatmanDave – will be available for free when his contract expires in June 2025, meaning Anderlecht could reignite their interest without worrying about forking out any transfer fee.