I tested every player, I gave them chance to prove themselves. But they keep making mistakes. They have been the problem at the club for years”-Ruben Amorim has ‘already decided’ to axe Man Utd star in January after just three games in charge after finding out the bad players at the club.
Ruben Amorim Set to Offload Christian Eriksen as Manchester United Plans January Shake-Up
New Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly planning his first major squad change just two games into his tenure. According to reports, Amorim has decided not to extend Christian Eriksen’s stay at Old Trafford, with the Danish midfielder’s contract set to expire next summer.
Amorim, who recently took charge following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, has overseen a 1-1 Premier League draw with Ipswich Town and a 3-2 Europa League victory against Bodo/Glimt. While praising his squad’s work ethic and their efforts to adapt to his philosophy, the Portuguese tactician is expected to operate within financial constraints.
With United nearing their Financial Fair Play (FFP) limits after the managerial change, Amorim may need to raise funds through player sales. Reports from Sky Sports Germany suggest Eriksen is a prime candidate for departure. United are reportedly open to selling the 32-year-old in January to recoup a small transfer fee, with Scottish champions Celtic expressing interest.
Eriksen, who joined United on a free transfer in 2022, has provided valuable contributions during his time at the club. However, Amorim’s system may demand a more dynamic profile in midfield, and Eriksen’s exit could pave the way for reinforcements.
Celtic’s Interest and Potential Roadblocks
Celtic, managed by Brendan Rodgers, are playing in the Champions League and could offer Eriksen the opportunity to remain in European competition. However, his reported £150,000-per-week wage poses a significant hurdle, as it far exceeds the salary of Celtic’s top earner, Callum McGregor, who reportedly earns £37,000 per week (SalarySport).
A loan deal, with United subsidizing part of Eriksen’s wages, could provide a viable solution. Notably, Premier League rules prohibit clubs from loaning out players with expiring contracts, but Scottish clubs are not bound by the same restrictions. Contracts in Scotland typically run until May 31, which allows for flexibility in this scenario.
Amorim’s Long-Term Vision
While Eriksen’s departure might be one of the first steps in Amorim’s reshaping of the squad, the manager is likely to rely on his current players until the end of the season due to budgetary constraints. The likes of Amad Diallo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Rasmus Højlund have already impressed under his leadership, offering a glimpse of what his revitalized United team could look like.
As January approaches, all eyes will be on how Amorim navigates United’s financial limitations to craft a squad that aligns with his vision for the club. For Eriksen, a potential move to Celtic could mark the beginning of a new chapter, allowing him to remain competitive in European football.
Rúben Amorim’s potential decision to offload Christian Eriksen marks a decisive step in his efforts to reshape Manchester United’s squad amid financial constraints. The Danish midfielder, though valued for his creativity and experience, seems an ill fit for the dynamic and physically demanding system Amorim aims to implement at Old Trafford.
### **Eriksen’s United Legacy**
Christian Eriksen’s arrival on a free transfer in 2022 was widely regarded as a shrewd acquisition. His vision, composure, and passing range brought a touch of class to United’s midfield. However, at 32 and with a game heavily reliant on technical prowess rather than physical intensity, Eriksen has struggled to influence games consistently against high-pressing opponents.
While his contributions have been meaningful, particularly in set-piece situations, Amorim’s preference for high-energy players capable of executing a pressing game likely makes Eriksen surplus to requirements.
### **Celtic’s Opportunity**
Celtic’s interest in Eriksen aligns with their ambition to enhance their squad for Champions League football. Under Brendan Rodgers, Eriksen’s creativity and experience could add a new dimension to their midfield, especially against European opposition. However, the financial aspects of such a move present challenges:
1. **Wage Disparity**: Eriksen’s £150,000-per-week salary is significantly higher than Celtic’s top earners.
2. **Loan Structure**: A loan deal with United subsidizing a portion of Eriksen’s wages could be a feasible compromise, given the unique flexibility of Scottish contracts.
This move could offer Eriksen an opportunity to remain in European football while playing a key role in Celtic’s domestic and continental campaigns.
### **Amorim’s Financial Challenge**
Manchester United’s financial limitations under Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules have necessitated a careful balancing act. Amorim’s January plans are expected to focus on generating funds through player sales to facilitate targeted reinforcements. Eriksen’s departure, while sentimental for fans, represents a pragmatic decision to free up wages and potentially secure a modest transfer fee.
### **Squad Dynamics Under Amorim**
Amorim has already started molding United’s identity, with younger players like Amad Diallo and Rasmus Højlund flourishing under his system. His vision emphasizes energy, tactical versatility, and a cohesive unit capable of implementing his ideas. Eriksen’s exit could pave the way for a more dynamic midfield signing or increased opportunities for emerging talents such as Kobbie Mainoo or Hannibal Mejbri.
### **Conclusion**
The potential departure of Christian Eriksen is emblematic of the larger shift underway at Manchester United. Rúben Amorim is clearly prioritizing a squad tailored to his philosophy while navigating the financial challenges inherited from previous regimes. If Eriksen does move to Celtic, it would signify a mutual opportunity: Eriksen’s chance to shine in a new environment and Amorim’s ability to shape United’s future with a clear, purposeful vision.
