Soccer

Eriksen still has ‘major ambitions’ to achieve after completing move to Man Utd

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Christian Eriksen, who believes Old Trafford is the “perfect” place for him.

CHRISTIAN HARTMANNREUTERS

Christian Eriksen is excited to work under Erik ten Hag and still has “major ambitions” to achieve in his career after completing a move to Manchester United.

The Denmark international was confirmed as United’s second signing of the window on Friday, following the arrival of full-back Tyrell Malacia, and he has signed a three-year contract.

It caps a remarkable year for Eriksen, who was brought back to life on the pitch after suffering a cardiac arrest when playing for Denmark against Finland at Euro 2020 last July.

After being told he could not play for Inter on medical grounds, Eriksen was offered a route back into top-flight football by Premier League side Brentford in January.

Eriksen made a big impact in his short time with the Bees, scoring once and assisting four more goals in 11 league appearances to help the club beat the drop.

But the playmaker opted against signing a fresh contract with Thomas Frank’s side and is now relishing the chance to get going at heavyweights United.

Eriksen joining a ‘special club’

“Manchester United is a special club, and I cannot wait to get started,” he told his new club’s official website.

“I have had the privilege of playing at Old Trafford many times but to do it in the red shirt of United will be an amazing feeling.”

To highlight Eriksen’s importance, he created 30 chances following his Bees bow in March, with only Martin Odegaard (38) and Kevin De Bruyne (42) topping that in the division over the period.

Indeed, between making his debut on March 5 and the end of the season, only six Premier League teams earned more points than Brentford (22 from 11 games).

Playing under Ten Hag

The Dane started his career with Ajax, whom United boss Ten Hag also spent four-and-a-half years in charge of prior to taking charge of United last month.

“I have seen Erik’s work at Ajax and know the level of detail and preparation that he and his staff put into every day,” said Eriksen, who has won five major honours in his career.

“It is clear that he is a fantastic coach. Having spoken with him and learned more about his vision and the way he wants the team to play, I am even more excited for the future.

“I still have major ambitions in the game. There is a huge amount that I know I can achieve, and this is the perfect place to continue my journey.”

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