Christian Eriksen Has Acknowledged Discussions With Erik Ten Hag Regarding The “Unpleasant” Situation At Manchester United
Christian Eriksen has communicated to Erik ten Hag that he is dissatisfied with his current level of playing time at Manchester United. Despite making 44 appearances for the Red Devils across all competitions last season, contributing two goals and 10 assists, the 32-year-old has seen a decline in his opportunities this term.
In the current 2023-24 season, Eriksen has started only 11 out of 21 games, completing the full 90 minutes on just four occasions. Most recently, he was utilized as a substitute in United’s thrilling 4-3 extra-time victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals last weekend.
Injuries and the emergence of promising talent Kobbie Mainoo, who has frequently partnered with Casemiro in central midfield, have played a role in Eriksen’s reduced playing time. While acknowledging the impressive form of his teammates in the midfield, the Danish international remains unsatisfied with his current situation at the club and has conveyed his sentiments to Ten Hag.
“I’ve previously expressed my dissatisfaction with not being in the lineup, but it’s not something that consumes me,” Eriksen revealed to Danish newspaper Tipsbladet.
“The team is achieving results, and I must acknowledge the role I have within it. Personally, my focus has been on working diligently and ensuring I’m ready for every match, which I am. I find it easier now to accept my situation than I would have in the past.
“I’ve had a discussion with Erik regarding my discontent and my desire to contribute as much as possible on the field. However, I understand the importance of being available for the team, which I always have been and will continue to be.
“Erik mentioned that he has chosen the current lineup, with Kobbie performing admirably, along with the rest of the midfield. This competition for positions is typical at a top-tier club. There’s healthy competition within the squad.”
Naturally, there may be concerns in the long run because I aim to be on the pitch as much as possible. It’s understandable not to want to constantly be on the sidelines.
However, I don’t approach it with anxiety at the moment. Often, when a team is performing well and winning, there’s reluctance to alter the winning lineup, and I respect that.
Eriksen faces the possibility of slipping further down the hierarchy now that Mason Mount has recovered from a lengthy calf injury. Ten Hag has recently emphasized Mount’s potential to become a pivotal figure in his first-team plans.
United’s No.14 is eager to make an impression during the upcoming international break with Denmark, eyeing participation in friendly matches against Switzerland and the Faroe Islands.
Eriksen, who joined Manchester United from Brentford on a free transfer in the summer of 2022, is set to see his contract at Old Trafford expire in June 2025.
Leave a Reply