"Eriksen is united closer to Ten Hag's goals"
After a thorough medical, Manchester United has signed Christian Eriksen to a three-year contract.
After leaving Brentford where he had an impressive loan spell last season, Erik ten Hag has now strengthened his midfield options at Old Trafford.
Due to the long flight from the UK, Eriksen from Denmark will not be joining United's preseason tour of Australia.
Eriksen will reunite with Ten Hag. Ten Hag helped Eriksen recover from his cardiac arrest at Euro 2020 and invited him to train with Ajax during rehabilitation.
Eriksen said, "Manchester United are a special club and I can't wait to get started." "I've had the pleasure of playing at Old Trafford many, but it will be an incredible feeling to do it in the red shirt for United.
"I've seen Erik's work at Ajax, and I know how meticulous he and his team are. He is an outstanding coach. I am more excited about the future after speaking with him.
"I have big ambitions in the game. There is a lot that I know I could achieve. This is the right place to continue my journey."
John Murtough, Manchester United football director, said: "Christian has been an outstanding attacking midfielder in Europe throughout his career. We are glad that he chose this club because he knew he had many options.
"In addition to his exceptional technique, Christian will bring valuable experience and leadership skills to our squad. We look forward to seeing these attributes on the pitch this season and beyond."
United was patient in their pursuit of Eriksen. They didn't pressure Eriksen to make a decision as they knew his decision would be based not only on football but also on other factors.
Eriksen was born in London and grew up with his family in Brentford. He has always been interested in working for United under Ten Hag, as well as being part of the new United era under the Dutchman.
"Eriksen is united closer to Ten Hag's goals"
Sky Sports News senior journalist Melissa Reddy:
"Eriksen had a verbal arrangement with Man Utd, but it was subject to a medical.
"He has had a very thorough, successful check-up and they have now announced a three year deal. This is something everyone is very happy about, because Ten Hag was keen to strengthen his midfield options.
"It felt as though that area had been dragging, especially with Frenkie de Jong's pursuit. But this brings them closer to Ten Hag's goal, which is technically gifted and capable players who can control a ball game."
Sky Sports' Sam Blitz:
After his half-season at Brentford, Eriksen was not surprised to find elite-level suitors. Thomas Frank's side was transformed by the midfielder, who saw them go from being relegation contenders to mid-table security in just weeks.
United would have been thrilled by Eriksen's contribution to Ivan Toney’s game in west London last year.
When Eriksen started playing for the Bees, the Brentford striker had two goals per game. The Expected Goals and Goals Per Game ratios increased by half. Toney saw his shots increase and was more comfortable in the box during this time.
Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, both of whom scored goals in pre-season for Erik Ten Hag's side, can get similar treatment at Old Trafford from Eriksen this term.
Eriksen's arrival in attacking midfield will relieve some pressure on Bruno Fernandes, especially since rotation will be required to pose a serious challenge to the Europa League.
The Denmark international was able to create more chances and assists at the back end than Fred and Fernandes, United's most prolific midfielders. However, midfield creativity has been lacking due to the loss of Juan Mata, Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard.
Martinez next?
After Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord, Eriksen was Man Utd's second summer signing. A third could be soon announced.
Lisandro Martinez, Ajax centre back posted a Friday night image of himself and his agent on an airplane with the caption "Heading to Manchester", as a PS45m switch is nearing completion.
Who will be moving this summer? The transfer window opens June 10, and closes 11pm September 1.
Stay up to date with the latest transfer news on Sky Sports'digital platforms. You can also keep up-to-date with the latest news and analysis at Sky Sports News.
Erik ten Hag will play Brighton at Old Trafford in his first Premier League match as Manchester United manager. This game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports on the first Super Sunday of 2022/23.
After taking on Graham Potter's Seagulls live on Sky Sports on Sunday, August 7th, United will travel to Brentford for the second round of fixtures. Then, United will host rivals Liverpool live on Sky Sports on August 22nd in an exciting early-season match.
United's visit to the Etihad Stadium on October 1 for the first Manchester derby begins a challenging month that sees Ten Hag's side travel all over the country to Everton, Chelsea, and host Tottenham and Newcastle.
On the weekend of November 12/13, Fulham will play the final game before the season is paused for the winter World Cup. United will then be back in action on Boxing Day, at Nottingham Forest.
A home match against Bournemouth will usher in 2023. Manchester City, Premier League champions, will be next at Old Trafford on February 14, followed by a return to Anfield on March 4. United will conclude their season at Fulham on May 28, while Fulham is at home on May 28.