Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 14, 2024 1:22 pm GMT
In a dramatic turnaround, Manchester United’s fortunes on the pitch appear brighter thanks to the resurgence of Christian Eriksen, a player who once faced an uncertain future at Old Trafford. The 32-year-old Danish midfielder has transformed the dynamics of Erik ten Hag’s squad, drawing praise from football icons like Paul Scholes and Jamie Carragher.
The Eriksen Effect
Manchester United struggled with consistency at the start of the season, suffering disappointing defeats to Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool. However, recent performances against Southampton and Barnsley, followed by a competitive match against Crystal Palace, have shown improvement. A key element in this revival has been Eriksen’s impactful presence in midfield.
– Eriksen had limited playing time earlier this year, appearing for only 37 minutes in 11 Premier League matches between February and April.
– Much speculation surrounded his potential departure, with clubs like Ajax and Anderlecht showing interest but ultimately pulling out due to financial constraints.
– His unexpected return to the starting lineup in September caught many by surprise, yet he has quickly become integral to the team.
“It has actually got a bit better since Eriksen has come into the team,” Scholes noted, highlighting the 32-year-old’s ability to control the tempo. The former United legend emphasized that Eriksen helps stabilize the squad, a sentiment echoed by Carragher.
Impact on Team Organization
Eriksen’s revival has brought a new level of organization to Manchester United’s gameplay, allowing for a more fluid attacking style. His skills contrast sharply with the sometimes chaotic playstyle seen earlier in the season.
– Since Eriksen’s inclusion, United’s average possession has risen from 50% to 56%.
– His excellent passing range and ball control have made him a crucial asset in maintaining possession and dictating the pace of play.
Carragher noted, “It’s maybe one of the reasons I think you might be playing Eriksen, coming back to not having this holding midfielder to control the game.” This recognition from former rivals underscores Eriksen’s value, especially as he operates in a more advanced midfield role.
Finding Balance
While Eriksen’s contributions have been invaluable, there’s a recognition that he may not be a long-term solution for the team’s midfield challenges. With the player turning 33 in February, concerns linger about his ability to maintain high-performance levels over a full match. Scholes remarked, “He just probably can’t play the full 90 minutes… so there is a problem there.”
As Manchester United awaits the full integration of new signing Manuel Ugarte, expectations are high for Eriksen to maintain his form while sharing responsibilities in midfield.
– Ugarte, a tough-tackling Uruguayan, is anticipated to complement Eriksen’s playstyle.
– Eriksen’s recent performances suggest he still has significant contributions to make, as evidenced by his remarkable two-goal outing during United’s 7-0 victory over Barnsley in the Carabao Cup.
Future Implications
The integration of both Eriksen and Ugarte could provide the balance Manchester United desperately needs. Eriksen’s resurgence offers hope for a team eager to claim its status among the elite in the Premier League.
Supporters have watched as Ugarte has yet to make his Premier League debut since joining. This cautious approach indicates a strategic plan to nurture youthful talents like Kobbie Mainoo, ensuring they don’t face burnout after a demanding season.
While Eriksen will not solve all of Manchester United’s midfield dilemmas, he has certainly filled a gap in the short term. Scholes emphasized the importance of Eriksen’s role, stating, “I think Eriksen does still bring that little bit of control,” reaffirming the need for players with his composure in the midfield.
Conclusion
As the season progresses, the impact of Christian Eriksen on Manchester United’s performance cannot be understated. With renewed energy and a strategic playstyle, he has breathed life into a team that was struggling to find its rhythm. As Erik ten Hag continues to shape his squad, the past month has shown that even players perceived to be at their twilight can reinvigorate an organization when given the chance to shine.
Fans are excited to see if Eriksen can keep playing well and help United for the rest of the season while they wait for Ugarte to join the team. This change shows us that in football, surprises can bring back a team’s energy and drive.
