Christian Eriksen wants to play for the next three years at the highest level but the Manchester United midfielder admits he may in time countenance dropping to a lower standard – potentially even into park football. The Dane signed for United in July 2022 and his contract expires in June.
Last season he made 12 Premier League starts and 10 substitute appearances, scoring once and making two assists. His involvement was limited in part by the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo. I want to play as long as possible,” the 32-year-old said.
“Now, I would say yes [to continue at elite level] but in three years’ time my mindset may be different, so that could be in the park or anywhere. There is a time and a place [for less game time] and I am not getting younger but it doesn’t feel like I’m not getting younger.
“Mentally, I am still the same but body-wise in terms of games and how we play, sometimes it is good to have a rest, to be able to perform to 100%. I haven’t been told [to] leave or [about an] extension. I feel good, my family is feeling good living in Manchester and United is a nice club.”
Eriksen may move into coaching when he retires. “I started [the badges] a few weeks ago. We only did three sessions then we stopped.”
In a 14-year career the Dane has played for Ajax, Tottenham, Inter and Brentford. For him the sport becomes easier with experience. “You are going to be running around no matter how old you are but the more you get in a situation the more you think: ‘Oh, I have actually been here a thousand times before, I know where to go, where the ball is going – it is going to be passed here or there.’ So in terms of that it does get easier but condition-wise it’s tougher compared to 10 years ago.”
Last summer, Eriksen said there was “too much travelling” on United’s pre-season tour of the US that took in New Jersey, San Diego, Houston and Las Vegas. He is happier with the current trip because United are based for a week in Los Angeles, where they played Arsenal on Saturday and will make the short trip south on Wednesday to play Real Betis in San Diego. They then fly to South Carolina for the final match against Liverpool.
“It’s different being at a base and travelling less to games,” he said. “The tour is also a trip [to service] sponsors at the same time as fitness, and football was pushed a little bit backwards last time. This year, football has been pushed forward.”
