Featured Image Credit: TNT Sports - Getty Images
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Christian Eriksen, Europa League
Jack Kenmare
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Christian Eriksen, Europa League
Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen looked far from pleased with Erik ten Hag's decision to replace him during Wednesday night's Europa League clash against FC Twente.
The Danish midfielder has been one of United's standout performers in the opening weeks of the 2024/25 campaign, netting three goals in all competitions from midfielder.
It is somewhat of a surprise considering his comments in the summer. After making just 12 Premier League starts for the Reds last season, he was an unused substitute in their FA Cup final win over Manchester City.
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Speaking to reporters whilst on international duty in June, Eriksen was asked if he finds it easier to sit on the bench towards the end of his career.
"No, it’s the same," he said. "I was also a bit lucky that I didn’t sit on the bench so much when I was younger. But I did it once in a while. It’s never fun. That’s for sure."
Eriksen added: "Personally, you always want to be the one who is chosen first in the team. Sometimes the coach looks the other way. But then I play for United, so there is just a battle for places, because there are a lot of good players."
Since making those comments, Ten Hag has backed the Dane in the opening weeks of the campaign.
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But in the latter stages of Wednesday night's Europa League clash against FC Twente, goalscorer Eriksen was replaced by Kobbie Mainoo – a decision that appeared to irk the midfielder.
As you can see from the footage below, he pointed towards his chest as if to question the decision. It was a moment that many fans picked up on.
One commented on the incident, saying: "Eriksen asking if he’s the one to be subbed??? Better get out of that stadium," while another said: "Eriksen in disbelief. I'm confused by these subs, too."
A third wrote: "When Eriksen saw his number up, he was in disbelief because he didn’t understand it," and a fourth added: "Eriksen couldn’t BELIEVE that he’s getting subbed off."
Eriksen would later give a brutally honest post-match interview after he was asked to reflect on the 1-1 draw.
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"We are mostly disappointed as a team," he told TNT Sports. "In the end, it was far from good enough. It was just said in the dressing room... it looked like they wanted it more than us and that can't be right.
"Personally, you score a goal and you think it's going to be the match winner but it didn't end up that way."
Eriksen added: "I think everyone is looking at themselves. We are professional footballers. We know it can't happen. We didn't lose but it feels like a loss. That's something that can't happen when you're at home."