Christian Eriksen has officially joined Manchester United, and here are three possible lineups for the midfielder next season.
Manchester United has announced the free transfer of Christian Eriksen.
Eriksen, 30, has signed a three-year contract with United. Eriksen is Erik ten Hag’s second summer signing after signing compatriot Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord for £12.9 million earlier this month.
Eriksen left Inter Milan by mutual consent after suffering a heart episode during the European Championship last year and returned to the sport in January after signing a six-month loan deal with Brentford.
The player produced one goal and four assists in ten appearances for Brentford, demonstrating that he retains his talent, but how might United line up with Eriksen next season? We examined the alternatives listed below.
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4-3-3
The 4-3-3 configuration is currently used by the best clubs in the Premier League, and Ten Hag is anticipated to utilize it next season.
Eriksen is a natural No.10, but his ability to play deeper in a three-man midfield, potentially alongside Fred and Bruno Fernandes, would allow him to play deeper. Eriksen’s technical skill is superb, and his passing range might add another dimension to United.
In the top tier last season, the 30-year-old averaged more ball recoveries, interceptions, and fewer ball turnovers than Fernandes. He also outperformed the Portuguese star in terms of successful passes, successful long passes, and passes to the final third.
4-2-3-1
Eriksen may potentially play in two different positions in a 4-2-3-1. Although Bruno Fernandes has been a near-certain starter during his stay at the club, Eriksen’s arrival should ensure that he now has meaningful competition for his spot.
Fernandes wasn’t at his best last season, and Eriksen has the talent to capitalize on his lack of form. Eriksen might play as No.10, a position occupied by Fernandes, or he could play deeper in a 4-2-3-1.
Eriksen and Fernandes would be able to share a pitch, and the Danish international would play in the double pivot.
4-1-4-1
This system, which emphasizes attacking, may not work with United’s existing squad, but if United recruits a specialist defensive midfielder this summer, Eriksen might line up in a side that looks threatening on paper.
Eriksen’s exceptional passing range might provide opportunities and assist break down the opposing defensive lines, so the value he could offer to attack sequences should not be underestimated, especially against low-block teams.
However, in high-stakes games, this shape may leave United exposed.
